The If You Are My Brothers Podcast

Straight Street Media
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Monthly

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. 6d ago

    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/

    46 min

  2. May 27

    Understanding Proton Therapy: Precision Care for Prostate Cancer

    This episode of the  If You Are My Brothers Podcast explores one of the most advanced prostate cancer treatments available today—proton therapy. Host Reggie Hicks sits down with Dr. Karen Godette, radiation oncologist at Winship Cancer Institute and Emory Proton Therapy Center, for an in-depth conversation about precision radiation treatment, side effects, survivorship, and how men can make informed decisions about their prostate cancer care. Dr. Godette explains how proton therapy differs from traditional radiation and why reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue may improve quality of life for many patients. Reggie also shares his personal experience undergoing proton therapy after biochemical recurrence following prostatectomy, creating a candid and informative discussion from both the physician and patient perspective. Topics include: What proton therapy is Who qualifies for treatment Radiation side effects Erectile dysfunction and continence concerns Hormone therapy Active surveillance Biochemical recurrence Advances in prostate cancer treatment Questions patients should ask before treatment This episode offers practical information, hope, and clarity for men and families navigating prostate cancer treatment decisions. Learn more: If You Are My Brothers Emory Proton Therapy Center Remember: This podcast is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding diagnosis and treatment options. If this episode helped you, please subscribe, share, and leave a review. Because if you are my brothers…we’re in this fight together.

    50 min

  3. May 13

    Living With It: The Courage of Active Surveillance

    Host Reggie Hicks welcomes award-winning journalist and AL.com columnist Roy S. Johnson for an honest and inspiring conversation about living with prostate cancer through active surveillance. After learning that his father died from prostate cancer, Roy became committed to regular screenings and early detection. When his own diagnosis came, he faced a difficult question many men struggle with: Do you immediately treat prostate cancer—or carefully monitor it? Roy shares how faith, research, trusted doctors, and family helped guide his decision to pursue active surveillance instead of immediate surgery or treatment. In this episode: Roy discusses discovering his family history The emotional moment he received his diagnosis Why he chose to publicly share his journey The psychological challenge of living with cancer What “thriving with cancer” means The importance of PSA testing for Black men His advocacy around Alabama’s SB19 prostate cancer screening legislation This episode is an important reminder that informed decisions, early detection, and open conversations can save lives. Resources AL.com Cancer Chronicles: https://www.al.com Learn more about the If You Are My Brothers Project: https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org Disclaimer This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Take action. It could save your life.

    47 min

  4. Apr 29

    PSA Screening 2026 — New Rules & What Men Must Know

    For years, men have heard mixed messages about PSA screening: test, don’t test, it causes harm, it saves lives. The confusion has led too many men—especially Black men—to tune out completely. In this powerful and informative episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks sits down with leading urologist Dr. Stacy Loeb to cut through the noise and bring clarity to one of the most important conversations in men’s health. This episode is about moving from confusion to clarity—and from awareness to action. What You’ll Learn What PSA really measures—and why it’s still critical Why prostate cancer often has no early symptoms The truth behind PSA controversy and how guidelines have changed When men should start screening—and why Black men should begin at age 40 Why PSA is like a “check engine light” for your body How modern tools (MRI, blood & urine tests) are reducing unnecessary biopsies What to do if your PSA is rising or fluctuating Lifestyle changes that can reduce prostate cancer risk and improve overall health RESOURCE BOX: Take Action for Better Prostate Health These trusted resources from the episode that can help you move from awareness to action Nutrition & Lifestyle Whole-Foods, Plant-Based Eating Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds while reducing red meat, processed foods, and dairy. Guided Support Rochester Lifestyle Medicine Institute https://rochesterlifestylemedicine.org Virtual Jumpstart Programs Physician-led coaching and support Nutrition, stress management, and behavior change Meal Planning Purple Carrot  https://www.purplecarrot.com Plant-based meal delivery Free recipes available online Beginner-friendly Eating Healthy Anywhere HappyCow  https://www.happycow.net Find plant-based meals worldwide Ideal for travel and dining out Learn More Men’s Health Show SiriusXM Channel 110 Wednesdays | 6–8 PM ET Live call-in format Prostate health Q&A   Lifestyle Checklist ✔ Eat more whole, plant-based foods ✔ Exercise 150 minutes/week + strength training ✔ Prioritize sleep ✔ Manage stress ✔ Avoid smoking Support the Mission If You Are My Brothers is dedicated to turning awareness into health action. Support: 👉 https://ifyouaremybrothers.org  Stay Connected 👍 Like | 🔁 Share | 🔔 Subscribe 🌐 https://ifyouaremybrothers.org  Disclaimer: This podcast is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.

    48 min

  5. Apr 1

    Strong For Him: Partners Behind the Prostate Cancer Journey

    What does prostate cancer look like from the other side? In this deeply moving episode, host Reggie Hicks brings together a group of women whose lives were forever changed by a diagnosis they didn’t receive—but had to live through every day. From shock and fear to faith and resilience, these women open up about: Navigating life after diagnosis Supporting their partners emotionally and physically Facing the unspoken realities of caregiving Redefining intimacy and connection Finding strength through faith This conversation is a reminder that prostate cancer is not just his fight—it’s a shared journey. Episode Highlights Early detection saved lives Caregivers often carry silent burdens Faith plays a central role in healing and endurance Relationships evolve—but love deepens Powerful Quotes “The journey is worth the fight.” “I cried in silence so he could be strong.” “Praying together is the highest form of intimacy.” About the Podcast The If You Are My Brothers Podcast is part of a national prostate cancer awareness and community engagement initiative designed to move men—and their families—from health awareness to health action. Support the Work Learn more, donate, and join the movement: 👉 www.ifyouaremybrothers.org

    53 min

  6. Mar 4

    Clinical trials, medical trust, and prostate cancer—what every man needs to know

    When many people hear the words clinical trials, history, and mistrust come to mind. But at the same time, diseases like prostate cancer continue to impact men every day — and research remains one of the most powerful tools we have to improve outcomes. In this important conversation, host Reggie Hicks — prostate cancer survivor and founder of If You Are My Brothers — is joined by Dr. Monica Webb Hooper, Acting Director of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Together, they explore the legacy of medical mistrust, modern research protections, and why participation in clinical trials is essential — especially for Black men facing higher rates of prostate cancer. 🔎 In This Episode ✔ How the Tuskegee Study still influences perceptions of medical research ✔ Common misconceptions about clinical trials (including placebo concerns) ✔ Why underrepresentation in prostate cancer research persists ✔ The importance of asking questions and being your own health advocate ✔ What “informed consent” really means today ✔ The role of trust, transparency, and community engagement in rebuilding confidence ✔ How to find clinical trials in your area ✔ Why research participation is not just a “last resort.” ✔ The psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis — and why bringing someone to appointments matters 💬 Key Takeaways Modern clinical trials are tightly regulated and monitored for safety. Participants are never left without a standard of care in cancer treatment trials. Underrepresentation is often about access and invitation, not simply hesitation. Trust must be earned through transparency and community engagement. Black men do participate in research — and their involvement is essential to advancing equitable care. Clinical trials power medical progress for future generations. 📌 For more information about clinical trials and helpful resources, visit: https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials/what-are-clinical-trials https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials-search or call 1-800-4-CANCER Learn more about the work conducted and led by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities www.nimhd.gov 💙 A Personal Note from Reggie Reggie shares an update on his own prostate cancer journey, including recent PSA results and reflections on the anxiety many men experience while waiting for test results. His message is clear: Know your PSA. Ask questions. Don’t go through it alone. 🎯 Call to Action -If this episode helped you, share it with a brother, father, son, friend, or colleague. -Visit www.IfYouAreMyBrothers.org to learn more about the documentary, community engagement efforts, and ways to support the mission. 🔔 Reminder: This podcast is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your personal health decisions.

    49 min

  7. Feb 18

    How CCRTD Is Advancing Prostate Cancer Research at Clark Atlanta University

    Prostate cancer research at Clark Atlanta University is advancing treatment and advancing health equity. In this Black History Month special, we spotlight the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development (CCRTD) and its Executive Director, Dr. Jaideep Chaudhary. In this episode of If You Are My Brothers Podcast, host Reggie Hicks explores how CCRTD is advancing prostate cancer research, addressing health disparities, improving drug development, and engaging the community to drive better outcomes for African American men. Prostate cancer disproportionately impacts Black men. CCRTD’s mission focuses on: Understanding cancer metastasis Improving treatment strategies Using AI and big data in cancer research Training the next generation of cancer scientists Community-driven prostate cancer awareness Dr. Chaudhary explains the drug development pipeline, the importance of PSA screening, and how early detection reduces mortality by nearly 50%. This Black History Month edition, we honor institutions and leaders shaping the future of cancer research and health equity. 📌 Learn more about CCRTD’s work at Clark Atlanta University 📌 Subscribe and share this Black History Month special

    40 min

  8. Jan 28

    One Line, One Fight: Brothers Facing Prostate Cancer Together

    What are the odds that four men from the same pledge line would all face prostate cancer? In this powerful and deeply personal episode of If You Are My Brothers, host Reggie Hicks is joined by three of his line brothers—Eric Chaney, Tony Liggett, and Frank “Frankie J.” Purnell—members of the Zeta Pi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity at the University of Georgia who pledged together in 1976. Decades after college, their brotherhood was tested again by the same diagnosis: prostate cancer. Together, these men share their individual journeys—from diagnosis and treatment decisions to side effects, survivorship, and the emotional realities men rarely discuss. They talk candidly about PSA testing, active surveillance, radiation therapy, hormone treatment, incontinence, intimacy, and the importance of being your own health advocate. This is more than a conversation about cancer—it’s a call to action for men, especially Black men, to know their numbers, talk openly, and look out for one another. Brotherhood didn’t end at graduation—and in this case, it helped save lives. 🔔 If this episode resonates, please like, subscribe, and share it with a brother, father, son, or friend. 🎙️ Featured Guests: Eric Chaney – Prostate cancer survivor navigating treatment decisions Tony "T" Liggett – Survivor of aggressive prostate cancer and advocate for education  Frank “Frankie J.” Purnell – Survivor emphasizing vigilance and family history Learn more & support the mission: 👉 https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org 🔑 Key Takeaways: Early detection saves lives—know your PSA number Men must talk openly about prostate cancer Brotherhood and support matter during survivorship Treatment decisions should be informed and personalized Life after prostate cancer is real—and manageable Support the Mission If You Are My Brothers is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) project of Straight Street Media, turning prostate cancer awareness into health action. Visit 👉 https://www.ifyouaremybrothers.org to: Explore the documentary & podcast series Support community engagement efforts Help save lives through education and conversation

    53 min
See All (22)

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