Navigating Cancer TOGETHER

Talaya, On the Other Side
  • 5.0 (29)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS

Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, the patient typically faces many challenges, including feeling confused, overwhelmed, and alone. All of them are emotionally draining!  Join cancer thriver and cancer doula Talaya Dendy, BCPA, on Wednesday for a dose of inspiration, information, and connection on Navigating Cancer TOGETHER (https://episodes.fm/1580570728) as she shares her cancer journey with raw vulnerability and practical advice as someone who’s been there. She also interviews guests from all walks of life who have been impacted by cancer and are passionate about sharing their patient, thriver, and caregiver experiences to help listeners navigate their unique path TOGETHER. Wellness champions and specialists promoting holistic approaches to care are also welcome to share their expertise on offsetting the pesky side effects of treatment. Tune in to hear raw and honest conversations, true stories, and valuable perspectives on the hidden struggles no one talks about, emotional rollercoaster, and the quiet victories of a cancer journey. Each episode contains powerful information to help you navigate cancer more easily, feel hopeful, and be better informed.  Listen and subscribe now to navigate cancer TOGETHER! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

  1. 2025 Recap: Navigating the Heart and Power of Cancer Stories

    12/31/2025

    2025 Recap: Navigating the Heart and Power of Cancer Stories

    How do we find the "heart" of survivorship? In this 2025 recap of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, we explore the most impactful cancer survivor stories of the year and share essential support for caregivers and patients. Host Talaya Dendy reflects on a landmark year for the show, providing a vulnerable 2025 cancer recap that balances professional milestones with her own personal 14-year health and survivorship journey. Whether you are navigating life after cancer or are currently in the thick of treatment, this episode offers a roadmap for the road ahead. We dive into the most-listened-to stories of the year, from prostate cancer awareness and men’s health to the "Choosing Flat" movement and why these patient and survivor-led voices are the true heartbeat of the cancer community. Stop navigating alone. Join us! ✨Episode Highlights: 00:07:11 The Top Stories of 2025: Prostate Cancer Awareness & Choosing Flat 00:10:17 Breaking the Silence: The Importance of Black Men’s Voices in Cancer 00:16:21 The 4:00 AM "Insomnia Club" 00:24:23 Talaya’s Favorite Moment: "What’s at the Heart of Survivorship? 00:32:14 14 Years NED & "Graduating" Oncology Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript179 Playlist: https://podcast.ausha.co/navigatingcancertogether/playlist/best-of-2025 Connect & Engage with Talaya: https://solo.to/cancerdoula 💜Let's Do it TOGETHER Share Your Thoughts: What was your favorite episode of 2025? Email NCTpodcastfan@gmail.com or leave a message on our fan page, https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast. Help Shape 2026: Take the Valued Listener Survey at bit.ly/nctlistenersurvey. Join the Waitlist: Be the first to enter our new safe space for survivors at ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist. Support Survivorship: Contribute to important survivorship conversations at https://givebutter.com/SurvivorSerieswithTalayaDendy Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side. Thank you for your support! It helps to bring these critical conversations to life. Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    51 min
  2. The Healing Pen and Cancer: What's Next

    12/20/2025 · BONUS

    The Healing Pen and Cancer: What's Next

    In this Season One finale, host Talaya Dendy celebrates the milestone of completing The Healing Pen and a Mic Companion podcast. Reflecting on the live October workshop, Talaya shares why she has decided to keep her signature 5-hour "deep dive" format and how journaling serves as a vital tool for movement, not just reflection. This episode features moving testimonials from participants and a first look at the evolving future of the program for 2026 . Support Our Mission / Partner With Us: Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you! Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community. For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com. 💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible! In this episode, we discuss: The Power of the 5-Hour Intensive: Why meaningful conversations can’t be rushed and why this format led to major breakthroughs. Movement as Medicine: Using journaling as a spark for action to reach your optimal, healed self. A Safe Space for Vulnerability: How emotional and physical safety allowed participants to form lifelong bonds in just five hours. ✨Episode Highlights: 00:04:20 Journaling as a Tool for Action & Movement 00:05:41 Moving Participant Testimonials 00:06:41 The Future of the Healing Pen and a Mic Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen5 Ways to Support & Connect: Support the Mission: Donate to the Survivor Series here Join the 2026 Priority List: Sign up for the 'On the Other Side' Newsletter Work With Me: Visit my website for Cancer Doula Services Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    12 min
  3. A Bodybuilder's Evolution: Kidney and Thyroid Cancer

    12/17/2025

    A Bodybuilder's Evolution: Kidney and Thyroid Cancer

    In this episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, host Talaya Dendy welcomes back award-winning journalist, poet, and two-time cancer survivor Annamaria Scaccia. Annamaria shares her powerful story of surviving both kidney and thyroid cancer by age 40 and how she is transforming her life through bodybuilding and advocacy. They discuss the psychological power of strength training, the challenges of managing rare cancer types, how cancer impacts relationships, and the importance of self-awareness in the healing process. Tune in to discover how physical discipline, raw truth, and giving yourself grace can help you reclaim your power and navigate the complex emotional landscape of long-term survivorship. ✨Episode Highlights: 00:02:32 Annamaria’s Origin Story 00:05:39 Transitioning from Kickboxing to Bodybuilding after a Kidney Cancer Diagnosis 00:09:18 Bodybuilding for Healing and Trauma Recovery 00:17:45 Self-Awareness and the Truth of the Iron 00:20:50 Navigating a Second Cancer Diagnosis 00:27:41 Addressing Multiple Primary Cancers Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript178 Connect & Engage with Annamaria: Links: https://linktr.ee/gotchascaccia?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=e18723c7-b1a1-4be2-9794-507317879f6cInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotchascaccia/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annamariascaccia/Podcast: https://www.kidneycancer.org/podcast/ National Cancer Survivor Month Episode: https://youtu.be/JlET8Ljujiw?si=f1_b4aAJ_rkTopk2 Join the Community: Looking for a safe space to share your raw truth? Join the waitlist for the Navigating Cancer TOGETHER Cancer Community Forum. Connect with others in a private, supportive environment completely free from the noise and distractions of social media. Be the first to know when we open: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side. Thank you for your support! It helps to bring these critical conversations to life. Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    1h 10m
  4. Cancer Survival, Journaling, & Advocacy: Lisa Beckendorf

    12/13/2025 · BONUS

    Cancer Survival, Journaling, & Advocacy: Lisa Beckendorf

    In this powerful episode of the Healing Pen and a Mic companion podcast, host Talaya Dendy sits down with Lisa Beckendorf, a celebrated cancer survivor and patient advocate. Lisa shares her personal journey through multiple cancer diagnoses and the pivotal moment she transitioned from a career in commercial real estate to full-time advocacy. Initially asking, "Why me?", she realized her experience was a powerful way to give back to the cancer community. This conversation dives into the transformative impact of journaling and storytelling in the healing process. Lisa highlights how the practice, central to the Healing Pen and a Mic Workshop offers emotional release, fosters deep community connections, and is a critical tool for personal growth. Whether you are navigating a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or seeking to turn your personal story into powerful action, this episode offers invaluable insights on finding solace, strength, and purpose through writing and community. Support Our Mission / Partner With Us: Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you! Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community. For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com. 💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible! ✨Episode Highlights: 01:44 Lisa's Cancer Journey: From Diagnosis to Advocacy 04:49 The Healing Power of Journaling and Storytelling 09:15 Observations and Impact from the Healing Pen Workshop 12:21 Advice for Cancer Patients, Survivors, and Caregivers 15:07 Lisa's Role in Advocacy and Research (ECOG-ACRIN, MNCCTN) Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen4 Subscribe to our newsletter at https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing conversation. Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    18 min
  5. Journaling, Healing, and Life After Cancer with Jennifer Schultz

    12/06/2025 · BONUS

    Journaling, Healing, and Life After Cancer with Jennifer Schultz

    In this powerful and heart-centered episode, Talaya Dendy welcomes Jennifer Schultz, a four-time melanoma survivor, university professor of public speaking, and passionate advocate. Recorded live during The Healing Pen and a Mic Journaling Workshop at the Mali Center in St. Paul, Jenn shares the intimate reality of her 10-year battle with recurrent cancer and her journey into survivorship. Drawing from her personal experience and professional expertise, Jenn offers hope, discussing how she found safety, community, and solace not only through support groups but also by harnessing the transformative impact of journaling. Tune in for Jenn's inspiring story and her dedication to educating and empowering cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. This episode is filled with invaluable life lessons and a strong sense of community. Support Our Mission / Partner With Us: Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you! Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community. For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com. 💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible! ✨Episode Highlights: 01:13 Recurrent Melanoma: Jenn’s 10-Year Journey and Diagnosis 04:15 Solace: Support, Community & Healing 07:16 Journaling: Transformative Writing Impact 08:53 Bravely Becoming: Insights into Jenn’s Book and Upcoming Project 10:35 Community Connection: Impact of the Workshop and Final Thoughts Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen_3 Connect & Engage with Jenn: Website: https://jennpatrice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenn_patrice/ https://www.instagram.com/thenextchapterwithjenn/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferpschultz/ Book: Bravely Becoming: Overcoming Grief and Loss to Find Yourself Again, https://a.co/d/dTLjuwR Subscribe to our newsletter at https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing conversation. Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    16 min
  6. Wenora Johnson: Navigating Cancer Three Times and Advocacy

    12/03/2025

    Wenora Johnson: Navigating Cancer Three Times and Advocacy

    Join host Talaya Dendy on Navigating Cancer TOGETHER for another inspiring conversation with the truly remarkable Wenora Johnson. Wenora is a three-time cancer survivor (colorectal, endometrial, and basal cell carcinoma) and a passionate patient and research advocate. In this episode, she shares her incredible, decades-long journey and how her background in the Navy instilled the grit and discipline she needed to face these health challenges. What You'll Learn: Lynch Syndrome & Genetic Testing: Wenora discusses the pivotal role that genetic testing and the discovery of Lynch syndrome played in her early detection and survival. This segment is a must-listen for anyone considering testing. The Power of Policy Change: Hear about Wenora's dedicated work in patient advocacy, including her efforts to push for policy changes that would lower the recommended age for initial colonoscopies. Self-Advocacy & Resilience: Get real-world advice on how to stand up for yourself in the healthcare system and how Wenora harnessed her inner resilience to overcome multiple diagnoses. Caregiving Insights: The conversation touches on the often-overlooked challenges and realities faced by caregivers. Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or simply looking for a story of extraordinary determination, Wenora's insights and message of hope are invaluable. Don't miss this episode! ✨Episode Highlights: 02:12 Meet Wenora Johnson: A Three-Time Survivor 06:22 The Impact of Lynch Syndrome on Her Journey 10:08 Why Genetic Testing Is So Important 16:04 Fighting for Change: Advocacy and Policy 33:00 Understanding Caregiving Challenges 36:19 Tips for Self-Advocacy and Building Resilience 43:19 Wenora's Final Thoughts and Resources (FORCE) Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript177Resource: FORCE, https://www.facingourrisk.org/about-us Inspired by Wenora's resilience? Start your journey with calm. Download your FREE Guided Meditation: "Calming Your Mind After a Cancer Diagnosis." Get inner peace now! https://www.ontheotherside.life/guidedmeditation 🔺Let us know what you think about this episode on our private Fanlist page. https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast If Wenora's story and tips resonated with you, or you know someone else who needs to hear this important conversation, please share this episode! Your share can make a huge difference!💜 Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side. Thank you for your support! It helps to bring these critical conversations to life. Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    53 min
  7. Donya Dawson: Survivor's Story, Journaling & Healing

    11/29/2025 · BONUS

    Donya Dawson: Survivor's Story, Journaling & Healing

    Welcome back to The Healing Pen and a Mic Companion Podcast! In the second episode, Talaya Dendy sits down with Donya Dawson, a courageous cancer survivor, proud member of the Rondo community, and dedicated public servant with the State of Minnesota. Live from the Mali Center in St. Paul, Donya shares her transformative journey of healing and empowerment following her breast cancer diagnosis. Donya discusses how her experience ignited a belief in creating spaces for connection, healing, and encouragement, a value deeply embedded in her work. Tune in to hear Donya's inspiring story, learn the benefits of journaling for emotional healing, and discover the importance of support systems and resources for those navigating their own health challenges. Her work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their next level of leadership, and she embodies the value of paying it forward. whether by making connections, offering help, or asking for support because true strength is built in community. Whether you're on a healing journey or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, inspiration, and tips on harnessing the power of words for well-being. Support Our Mission / Partner With Us: Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you! Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community. For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com. 💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible! ✨Episode Highlights: 01:10 Donya's Journey: From Diagnosis to Empowerment 02:59 Navigating Treatment: Trials, Triumphs, and Turning Points 06:41 The Healing Pen: How Journaling Fueled Her Recovery 09:26 Building Bridges: Advice for Overcoming Isolation & Finding Support Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen2 Connect & Engage with Donya: Website: https://healingrootsacc.com Upcoming Event on 2/7/2026: https://healingrootsacc.com/upcoming-events Subscribe to our newsletter at https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing conversation. Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    13 min
  8. Voices, Stories, and Support for the Cancer Community

    11/29/2025 · BONUS

    Voices, Stories, and Support for the Cancer Community

    Welcome to the Healing Pen and a Mic Companion Podcast! In this powerful introductory episode, join Talaya Dendy, a 14-year cancer thriver, cancer doula, and compassionate facilitator, as she unveils the vision behind The Healing Pen and a Mic. Discover the transformative power of combining journaling and storytelling (through podcasting) as a path to healing within the cancer community. Talaya sets the stage for her unique Journaling & Podcast Workshop, emphasizing the importance of emotional exploration, giving voice to your story, and finding authentic connection when navigating the uncertainties of a cancer journey, including survivorship post-treatment. This episode offers a glimpse into the workshop's impact, inviting you into the welcoming, supportive space at The Mali Center in St. Paul, MN. You'll gain insights into how this initiative helps foster emotional comfort, spiritual peace, and resilience, drawing inspiration from the brave voices of cancer survivors, patients, and caregivers. Support Our Mission / Partner With Us: Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you! Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these vital, free workshops to the cancer community. For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com. 💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible! ✨Episode Highlights: 01:01 Workshop Unveiled: What to Expect from Our Unique Experience 03:03 Our Home Away From Home: A Welcoming Space at The Mali Center, St. Paul 04:29 Beyond Words: The Transformative Power of Journaling & Storytelling 11:13 What's Next? Glimpse into Upcoming Episodes & Final Thoughts Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen1 Connect & Engage with Talaya: Website: https://www.ontheotherside.life LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talayadendy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancerdoula_ontheotherside/Email: nctpodcastfan@gmail.com Newsletter: https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter Subscribe to our newsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing conversation. Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    14 min
See All (186)

Trailer

5
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, the patient typically faces many challenges, including feeling confused, overwhelmed, and alone. All of them are emotionally draining!  Join cancer thriver and cancer doula Talaya Dendy, BCPA, on Wednesday for a dose of inspiration, information, and connection on Navigating Cancer TOGETHER (https://episodes.fm/1580570728) as she shares her cancer journey with raw vulnerability and practical advice as someone who’s been there. She also interviews guests from all walks of life who have been impacted by cancer and are passionate about sharing their patient, thriver, and caregiver experiences to help listeners navigate their unique path TOGETHER. Wellness champions and specialists promoting holistic approaches to care are also welcome to share their expertise on offsetting the pesky side effects of treatment. Tune in to hear raw and honest conversations, true stories, and valuable perspectives on the hidden struggles no one talks about, emotional rollercoaster, and the quiet victories of a cancer journey. Each episode contains powerful information to help you navigate cancer more easily, feel hopeful, and be better informed.  Listen and subscribe now to navigate cancer TOGETHER! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Talaya, On the Other Side
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    186
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © On the Other Side LLC
  • Show Website
    Navigating Cancer TOGETHER