It Takes Balls

Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation

It Takes Balls is a podcast by and for testicular cancer survivors, patients, and their loved ones. Listen as survivors and medical providers give insight into facing and treating a testicular cancer diagnosis in hopes of removing the stigma around men’s urological health. Everyone’s journey is unique and equally important. Early detection of testicular cancer saves lives!

  1. Knocked Down by Cancer Twice; Brian Gets Back Up

    5D AGO

    Knocked Down by Cancer Twice; Brian Gets Back Up

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Brian Carlson shares his powerful and rare experience of being diagnosed with testicular cancer twice, nearly a decade apart — first with an aggressive non-seminoma germ cell tumor, and later with seminoma affecting his remaining testicle. Diagnosed in his mid-20s the first time, Brian walks through how subtle pain led to rapid imaging, orchiectomy, and three cycles of BEP chemotherapy, followed by years of surveillance and recovery. Brian then speaks on the physical and mental toll of treatment, including the realities of chemotherapy side effects, trauma-related memory gaps, hearing loss, and long-term survivorship challenges. Brian opens up about navigating work, marriage, and mental health during treatment, as well as the shock of discovering a second testicular cancer diagnosis years later — this time during a period of major life upheaval that included separation, a new job, and relocation. Brian also offers an honest look at life after bilateral orchiectomy, including the challenges of low testosterone, delays in testosterone replacement therapy, mood changes, and learning to advocate for himself medically. He explains how testosterone replacement ultimately may have helped normalize tumor markers. The episode closes with Brian’s reflections on survivorship, the importance of community, and why speaking openly about testicular cancer, men’s mental health, and self-advocacy can make a life-saving difference. 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 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 Connect with Brian: https://www.instagram.com/briangetsbackup Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    45 min
  2. Don's Story: Testicular Cancer, Burn Pits, and the PACT Act

    FEB 1

    Don's Story: Testicular Cancer, Burn Pits, and the PACT Act

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Don Dworek, a physician, U.S. Army veteran, and preventive neurologist, shares his experience being diagnosed with testicular cancer in his early 50s, well outside the age range most men associate with the disease. Don explains how regular self-exams helped him notice a small but concerning change, leading to rapid testing, diagnosis, and surgery. His story reinforces why testicular cancer symptoms and self-awareness matter at any age. The conversation explores Don’s path through treatment and recovery, including complications like a post-surgical deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the often-overlooked impact of low testosterone after orchiectomy. Don speaks candidly about the mental and physical toll of hormonal changes, loss of motivation, and delayed access to care — highlighting gaps many survivors face after treatment ends. As a Gulf War veteran, Don also discusses potential links between toxic exposure, burn pits, and testicular cancer, and shares critical information about the VA PACT Act, which recognizes testicular cancer as a presumptive condition for eligible veterans. His perspective as both a patient and physician makes this episode an informative and empowering discussion on early detection, survivorship, advocacy, and navigating cancer care with urgency and intention. 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 Follow Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation: ⁠https://www.testescancer.org https://www.x.com/testescancer ⁠https://www.instagram.com/testescancer https://www.facebook.com/tca.orgFollow Steven Crocker: https://www.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Connect with Don: https://www.instagram.com/donalddworek Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    40 min
  3. Testicular Cancer Changed Colin's Life — But Not His Voice

    JAN 15

    Testicular Cancer Changed Colin's Life — But Not His Voice

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Colin Safley — an opera singer and suit salesman — shares his experience navigating testicular cancer while facing a decision that could impact both his health and his livelihood. When treatment options included BEP chemotherapy, Colin was forced to weigh survival against the potential risk to his lungs, ultimately choosing a path that prioritized protecting his ability to sing. His story sheds light on how cancer treatment decisions can extend far beyond medicine, especially for patients whose careers depend on their bodies in highly specific ways. Colin also opens up about the emotional side of diagnosis, including what he describes as “coming out of the cancer closet” — deciding who to tell, when to tell them, and how much to share. The episode explores the vulnerability of living publicly with cancer while trying to maintain independence, humor, and control. During treatment, Colin found comfort in unexpected ways, from bringing plushies to chemo to reclaiming his identity through creativity and play. That sense of humor carried through even the hardest moments, including hair loss, which he turned into a statement by dressing as several bald characters for Halloween. Through laughter, honesty, and self-expression, Colin reframes survivorship not as a linear recovery but as an evolving process. His story highlights key themes in testicular cancer awareness, survivorship, and men’s health — reminding listeners that there’s no single right way to face cancer, only the way that preserves who you are. 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 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 Connect with Colin: https://www.instagram.com/colinsingsopera/ https://www.facebook.com/colinsafleymusic Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    31 min
  4. Mohammad's Story From Iran: Benign Diagnosis; Permanent Consequences

    JAN 8

    Mohammad's Story From Iran: Benign Diagnosis; Permanent Consequences

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Mohammad shares his rarely heard and emotionally complex journey through a testicular tumor diagnosis that ultimately turned out to be benign, but not without life-altering consequences. After noticing a slow-growing lump in his testicle over several years, Mohammad sought medical advice and was told removal was urgent, with little discussion of alternative options such as watchful waiting or partial orchiectomy. Living in Iran, where conversations around men’s health and testicular issues remain highly stigmatized, Mohammad faced his diagnosis largely without community support, limited patient education, and few culturally accessible resources. Mohammad opens up about the devastating realization that his tumor may not have required full removal and the lasting impact that decision has had on his self-image, sexuality, fertility concerns, and mental health. He speaks candidly about regret, masculinity, dating after surgery, and the emotional toll of losing a testicle when cancer wasn't the final diagnosis. His story sheds light on a rarely discussed reality: that even when tumors are benign, the physical and psychological consequences of surgery can be profound. This episode highlights the urgent need for patient advocacy and global access to testicular cancer education, especially in regions where language barriers, cultural taboos, and lack of survivor communities leave men feeling isolated. Mohammad’s courage in sharing his experience is a powerful reminder that every patient deserves to understand that they are not alone, no matter where they live. For cultural reasons, Mohammad has elected to obscure his picture and video. 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.instagram.com/stevencrocker https://www.facebook.com/steven.crocker2 Connect with Mohammad: ma.sadeghi95@yahoo.com Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    32 min
  5. Dr. Justin Dubin - Debunking Misinformation in Men's Health and Testicular Cancer

    12/15/2025

    Dr. Justin Dubin - Debunking Misinformation in Men's Health and Testicular Cancer

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, urologist and men’s health expert Dr. Justin Dubin joins the show to dismantle some of the most common myths and misunderstandings surrounding testicular cancer, testosterone, and talks about the explosion of misinformation online. Dr. Dubin breaks down topics like pregnancy tests for testicular cancer, marijuana use and cancer risk, vaping, prosthetics, and why early detection still remains the best predictor of simpler treatment and better outcomes. His clear explanations offer the kind of guidance young men desperately need but often don’t receive from social media or general online searches. Dr. Dubin also dives deep into the stigma around men’s health - especially when it comes to testicles and hormone concerns. He talks openly about why men suffer in silence, how misinformation spreads faster than facts, and what men should actually do when they find a lump, feel pain, or notice changes in their libido or energy. From covering “testosterone boosters” to encouraging men to advocate for their own care, Dr. Dubin brings a practical, compassionate, and no-nonsense approach to topics that are often overlooked or misunderstood. Whether you're navigating a testicular cancer diagnosis, questioning your testosterone levels, or simply trying to make sense of what you see on TikTok and YouTube, this conversation equips you with science-backed information and reminds you why talking about men’s health openly can literally save lives. 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 Follow Dr. Dubin: https://x.com/justindubinmd https://www.instagram.com/justindubinmd https://www.themanuppod.com 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

    1h 7m
  6. At First Matt's Doctor Thought He Had a Rare Sarcoma... It Was Testicular Cancer

    12/08/2025

    At First Matt's Doctor Thought He Had a Rare Sarcoma... It Was Testicular Cancer

    In this powerful episode of It Takes Balls, Australian guest Matt P shares his extraordinary path to a testicular cancer diagnosis that initially appeared to be a rare and life-threatening sarcoma. What began as persistent back pain, rising blood pressure, and unexplained fatigue spiraled into the discovery of a football-sized tumor wrapped around major organs, including his kidney and psoas muscle. Matt opens up about the terrifying weeks when doctors believed he faced a 40–50% survival rate, until a biopsy revealed something astonishing: the massive abdominal tumor was actually metastatic embryonal carcinoma, a highly aggressive but highly chemo-responsive form of testicular cancer. Matt walks listeners through the intense whirlwind that followed—from emergency oncology appointments to an accelerated BEP chemotherapy trial, dramatic tumor shrinkage, and a complex, multi-surgeon retroperitoneal lymph node dissection that ultimately saved his leg, his kidney, and his life. He candidly discusses the physical toll of chemo, the mental strain of uncertainty, and the resilience required to fight through complications, painful procedures, and the long road to recovery. His story highlights the importance of early detection, knowing the lesser-known symptoms such as back pain from metastatic spread, and advocating for yourself when something feels off. Today, Matt uses his experience to educate other men through TikTok, openly discussing testicular cancer symptoms, chemotherapy side effects, fertility preservation, and life after treatment. His message is clear: listen to your body, don’t delay seeking help, and never underestimate the power of community support. 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 Connect with Matt:https://www.tiktok.com/@one.tough.nut.matt Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    40 min
  7. The Life-Changing Call Matt Guilloty Received While Driving 55 Miles Per Hour

    12/01/2025

    The Life-Changing Call Matt Guilloty Received While Driving 55 Miles Per Hour

    In this episode of It Takes Balls, Matt Guilloty shares his intense journey through stage IIIB non-seminomatous testicular cancer. What he believed was a hydrocele kept growing until his testicle reached “the size of an avocado,” eventually leading to a shocking diagnosis delivered while he was driving on the highway. Matt describes the moment he learned his AFP tumor markers were 3,389, his cancer had spread to lymph nodes and lungs, and he needed BEP chemotherapy. Matt opens up about the physical and mental toll of four rounds of chemo - nausea, hiccups, fear before each cycle - and how he juggled treatment with grad school. He reflects on finding support through nurses, fellow survivors, and online communities, and how skateboarding helped him stay grounded. Matt also revisits his major post-chemo RPLND surgery and his long recovery back to mobility and strength. Now nearly three years into surveillance, Matt shares what the experience taught him about early detection, trusting his oncology team, and staying positive through fear. 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 Connect with Matt: https://www.instagram.com/gatt.muilloty/ Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    33 min
  8. Jon Reiner: Kidnapped, Malaria, and 2x Testicular Cancer

    11/15/2025

    Jon Reiner: Kidnapped, Malaria, and 2x Testicular Cancer

    In this powerful episode of It Takes Balls, testicular cancer survivor Jon Reiner shares his rare experience battling the disease twice, 15 years apart. Jon explains how he first noticed symptoms, what his testicle felt like, and he walks through ultrasound, tumor markers, orchiectomy surgery, radiation therapy, and the shock of recurrence after more than a decade. Jon also explores life after losing both testicles — including testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), injections vs topical gel, hormone swings, mood changes, sex drive considerations, and insurance frustrations. He shares how he protected his daughters emotionally, how anxiety and scanxiety impact families, and the importance of community support. Jon talks about empathy, masculinity, vulnerability, and advice for newly diagnosed testicular cancer patients: take symptoms seriously, fight early, and let people help you. 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 Connect with Jon https://www.thejonreiner.com https://www.instagram.com/thejonreiner Theme song: No Time Like Now - Tom Willner www.tomwillner.com

    44 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

It Takes Balls is a podcast by and for testicular cancer survivors, patients, and their loved ones. Listen as survivors and medical providers give insight into facing and treating a testicular cancer diagnosis in hopes of removing the stigma around men’s urological health. Everyone’s journey is unique and equally important. Early detection of testicular cancer saves lives!

Information

  • Creator
    Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    111
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation
  • Show Website
    It Takes Balls