The Cracking Cancer Podcast

Dr. Concannon and the Patient Community
  • 5.0 (11)
  • EDUCATION

Join Dr. Kyle Concannon, an MD Anderson–trained cancer doctor and scientist, together with the patient community, as we break down the knowledge and cultural barriers between cancer patients and cancer providers. Cracking Cancer empowers listeners with clear, accessible insights into cancer care, treatment options, and the complex world of cancer. Here, academic experts (providers) and experiential experts (patients) come together to discuss critical topics and build a more informed, supportive cancer community. Join us as we crack the code to better communication, knowledge, and collaboration in the fight against cancer. This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied upon as such. The views expressed are those of the participants and not of their affiliated organizations.

  1. 5D AGO

    What is radiation? With Dr. Tim Waxweiler and Bill Thach

    Demystifying Radiation: From "Adult Coloring" to Molecular Smart Drugs In this enlightening episode of Cracking Cancer, host Dr. Kyle Concannon is joined by academic radiation oncologist Dr. Tim Waxweiler and stage IV neuroendocrine patient Bill Thach. They strip away the "sci-fi" mystery surrounding radiation therapy, addressing common patient fears—such as "Am I radioactive?"—and explaining the meticulous physics behind modern treatment. The trio discusses the evolution of radiation from broad-beam "front-to-back" treatments to modern dose painting, where specialists use complex algorithms to steer energy toward tumors while sparing healthy organs. Bill shares his raw experience navigating 25 rounds of external radiation and the cutting-edge world of Radiopharmaceuticals (PRRT). Dr. Waxweiler breaks down the "Goldilocks" quest for the perfect dose, the nuances of Proton Therapy, and why staying physically active is the most powerful tool a patient has to combat radiation-induced fatigue. This episode is an essential guide for anyone facing a radiation referral, offering clarity on everything from simulation casts to the cumulative risks of diagnostic scans.   Key Takeaways: Radiation is "Targeted Energy" External Beam vs. Brachytherapy The Rise of Radiopharmaceuticals (PRRT) The Proton Therapy Debate The Cumulative "Radiation Bucket"   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer    Chapters: (00:00) Radiation Basics Explained (07:47) Planning and Beam Shaping (17:59) Why Not Radiate Everything (29:10) Risks of Repeat Radiation (33:18) Lutathera Side Effects (41:39) How Targeted Particles Work (52:05) Choosing Treatment Together (58:35) Advice for New Patients     To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    1h 4m

  2. APR 9

    Cancer in Adolescence and Young Adults with Alison Silberman and JJ Singleton. Episode 48.

    Young, Sick, and Isolated: Navigating the AYA Cancer Crisis with Stupid Cancer In this vital episode of Cracking Cancer, host Dr. Kyle Concannon is joined by JJ Singleton, a colorectal cancer survivor diagnosed at age 27, and Alison Silberman, CEO of Stupid Cancer. They dive into the world of Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) cancer—defined as patients diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 39. While cancer rates in younger adults are rising, the medical system remains largely tailored to older populations, leaving AYAs in a "clinical gap" between pediatrics and geriatrics. The trio discusses the profound isolation felt by young patients who don't see themselves reflected in oncology waiting rooms and the specific milestones—fertility, career building, and financial independence—that cancer abruptly derails. Alison highlights the work of Stupid Cancer in providing "hub and spoke" resources for this community, while JJ shares his journey from "stunted growth" and mental health struggles to finding a life-changing community. This episode is a call to action for providers to integrate psychosocial checklists into clinical care and a roadmap for young survivors to stop isolating and "say yes" to community.   Key Takeaways: The AYA "Clinical Gap" The rising Incidence is Real The "Burden" of the Stoic Male Psychosocial Checklists are Needed Stop the Isolation   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer  Chapters: (00:00) Why AYA Cancer Matters (02:41) Allison’s Advocacy Origin (03:35) JJ’s Diagnosis Story (13:43) Unique AYA Life Challenges (17:32) Fixing Care Communication Gaps (25:49) Family Planning After Cancer (27:53) Stupid Cancer Programs (37:21) AYA Biology and Trials (41:58) Defining AYA Care Standards (46:55) Finding Resources and Community   To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    54 min

  3. MAR 26

    What is LMD / Leptomeningeal Disease with Laura Alder and Samantha Murrell. Episode 47.

    In this crucial episode of Cracking Cancer, host Dr. Kyle Concannon is joined by patient advocate Samantha Murrell and world-renowned expert Dr. Laura Alder, a thoracic oncologist at Duke University. Together, they demystify Leptomeningeal Disease (LMD)—a condition where cancer cells spread to the thin layers of tissue (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. LMD is often considered "the scariest" diagnosis by patients because of its historic poor prognosis and the diagnostic difficulty it presents. The team explores why an MRI alone isn't always enough for a diagnosis, the "50/50" reality of lumbar punctures, and the revolutionary shift toward CSF genomic profiling. Dr. Alder highlights the "multi-disciplinary tumor board" approach to treatment, discussing everything from intrathecal chemotherapy via Ommaya reservoirs to the latest CNS-penetrant targeted therapies. This conversation moves past the fear to focus on the emerging tools and clinical trials that are offering new hope and extended quality of life for those facing LMD.   Key Takeaways: LMD vs. Brain Metastases The Diagnostic Challenge Know the Neurological Red Flags The "Blood-Brain Barrier" Hurdle Advocating for Inclusion   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer    Chapters: (00:00) What Is LMD (06:51) Patient Fears And Misconceptions (14:08) Diagnosing LMD MRI And Spinal Tap (23:57) Timing Risk And Why It Happens (31:47) Targeted Drugs for CNS (37:43) CNS Patients Excluded (48:06) Prognosis and Urgency (53:05) CNS vs Spine Confusion   To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    1 hr

  4. MAR 19

    How to Support your Loved Ones: A Sister’s Journey Through Cancer. Episode 46.

    In this poignant episode of Cracking Cancer, co-host Ashley Holt steps into a different role to interview Lauren Case, whose sister, Lexi, is living with Stage IV EGFR Exon 20 lung cancer. While the spotlight often remains on the patient, this conversation illuminates the emotional and logistical weight carried by sisters who become researchers, advocates, and "truth-tellers" in the face of terminal illness. Lauren shares the raw reality of the "work zone" she entered following Lexi’s diagnosis—balancing her own family life while managing the complex logistics of her sister’s care, from coordinating cross-country flights for clinical trials to picking her up from chemotherapy infusions. The duo discusses the unique challenges of the sibling dynamic, the "delayed grief" that comes with staying strong for others, and the vital role a caregiver plays in ensuring oncologists hear the unvarnished truth about treatment side effects. This episode is a tribute to the "village" that supports a cancer patient and a roadmap for siblings navigating the ebbing and flowing stages of grief.   Key Takeaways: The "Logistics Zone" as a Coping Mechanism The Caregiver as "Truth-Teller" Grief is a Family Diagnosis The Power of the Village Authenticity and Risk   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer    Chapters: (00:00) Meet Lauren the Caregiver (08:09) Hearing Lexi’s Diagnosis (13:52) Busy Now Grieve Later (22:06) Burden vs Love in Support (29:31) Quality of Life vs Longevity (37:03) How Support Networks Show Up (44:14) Can You Ever Forget Cancer (52:05) It Takes a Village   To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    54 min

  5. MAR 5

    Should I Attend National Conferences with Max Doppelt. Episode 45.

    In this episode of Cracking Cancer, host Dr. Kyle Concannon sits down with patient advocate and caregiver Max Doppelt to pull back the curtain on national cancer conferences. As we navigate the complex oncology landscape of 2026, this conversation explores whether these high-level medical meetings—like ASCO, AACR, and IASLC—are truly the best use of a patient’s most precious resource: time. From the intimidating halls of Chicago’s McCormick Place to niche-targeted therapy meetings in California, Max shares his journey from "cornering trial coordinators" to finding a therapeutic community of peers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering if they should attend a major medical meeting or if their time is better spent elsewhere.   Key Takeaways The Knowledge Gap is Smaller Than You Think Networking Over Data The "Standing Ovation" Paradox Pharma: Partner or Profit? Patient Advocacy Groups as the "Bridge"   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer    Chapters: (00:00) Max Conference Origin Story (04:22) Expectations Versus Reality (12:25) Small Versus Huge Meetings (16:13) Asking Experts Respectfully (20:36) Advocacy Groups As Filters (32:31) Patient View On Pharma Limits (45:16) Advocating at Posters (55:18) Emotional Weight of Data   To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    1h 6m

  6. FEB 26

    The Risk of Additional Testing Follow-Up with Ashley Holt. Episode 44.

    In this highly personal follow-up episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon and patient advocate Ashley Holt navigate the "mental hell" that can arise when advanced medical technology outpaces clinical certainty. Ashley, a Stage I lung cancer survivor, shares the harrowing story of her Signatera blood test (a tumor-informed ctDNA test) turning positive on her one-year diagnosis anniversary. The episode pulls back the curtain on the months of uncertainty that followed: a clean PET scan and brain MRI, two follow-up blood redraws, and the agonizing wait for results during the holiday season. Dr. Kyle and Ashley dive deep into the catch-22 of "over-testing"—where the tools meant to provide peace of mind actually trigger profound scanxiety and unnecessary medical procedures. They challenge the misconception that "more is always better" and provide a rare look into the friction between medical science liaisons, oncologists, and the patients who must live with the fallout of a 1% false positive.   Key Takeaways: The False Positive is Not Benign The "Standard of Care" is Not "Sub-Par" ctDNA Sensitivity vs. Actionability Question the MSL and the Sale The Right to a "Test Vacation"   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer    Chapters: (00:00) The Positive Test Scare (05:39) Redraws and Second Opinions (10:57) Does Earlier Detection Help (19:35) How Tumor DNA Blood Tests Work (29:26) Standard Care Reality (38:00) Uncharted Follow Up (49:35) Malpractice Pressure (51:39) Shared Decisions Balance (56:48) Surveillance Moving Forward   To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    58 min

  7. FEB 19

    Finding the Right Social Group with Bill Thach and JJ Singleton. Episode 43.

    In this moving episode of "Cracking Cancer," host Dr. Kyle Concannon is joined by JJ Singleton and Bill Thach to discuss the "hidden" struggle of the cancer experience: social isolation, specifically among men. Both JJ and Bill share a striking commonality—it took each of them five years post-diagnosis to find a social support group that actually resonated with their needs. The conversation dives deep into why traditional support groups often fail men, particularly Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) patients. Bill and JJ candidly discuss the "stoic male" stereotype, the fear of having vulnerability weaponized, and the frustration of groups that focus solely on medical jargon rather than real-life struggles. They highlight the transformative power of Man Up to Cancer, a community that prioritizes social-emotional support and "campfire-style" vulnerability over clinical agendas. From navigating terminal diagnoses to the "superpower" of asking for help, this episode is a roadmap for any man—or loved one of a man—looking to break the silence and find a community that truly understands the weight of the fight.   Key Takeaways The "Five-Year Gap" Vulnerability as a Superpower The Problem with "Medical-Only" Groups Unique Struggles of AYAs (Age 15–39) The "Gathering of Wolves"   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer    Chapters: (00:00) Why Social Support Matters in Cancer (05:08) Finding the Right Fit: Facebook Groups, AYA Meetups, and Time Barriers (13:48) Safe Vulnerability: Trust, Brotherhood, and Men Supporting Men (22:18) When Support Groups Hurt (33:35) The real cost of “miracle cures.” (42:00) Beyond disease type: building support around shared social struggle (53:55) Bill’s postcard moment: joining, lurking, then going to Gathering of Wolves (57:40) Taking the leap to an in-person retreat   To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    1h 4m

  8. FEB 5

    Navigating the Complexity of Clinical Trials with Max Doppelt. Episode 42.

    In this high-stakes episode of "Cracking Cancer," Dr. Kyle Concannon and Samantha Murrell are joined by Max Doppelt, an engineer-turned-caregiver who transformed his mother’s terminal diagnosis into a mission for systemic change. Max shares the harrowing reality of navigating the "ivory tower" of oncology, where regulatory burdens and institutional silos often prevent patients from accessing the very drugs that could save them. From the heartbreak of failing trial screenings due to rigid exclusion criteria to the bold, life-saving decision to source a next-generation TKI from China during a trade war, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the logistical "nightmare" of the current trial system. The trio discusses why the burden of research often falls on the terminally ill and how Max is using his "special nerd powers" to bridge the gap. He introduces Patient Data Vault, a privacy-first AI platform designed to automate the clinical trial search, turning a list of thousands of irrelevant options into a curated handful of actionable leads. It’s an episode about patient empowerment, the "action layer" of AI, and the lengths a family will go to when the standard of care is no longer enough.   Key Takeaways: The Regulatory Gap The Problem with "Ivory Towers" Inclusion/Exclusion Paradox AI as the Great Equalizer Proactive "Second Opinion" Strategy   Want to get more involved with cancer research and support the podcast? Visit the link below: ⬇️ (All proceeds go strictly towards furthering cancer research and supporting this podcast) Giving.CU.EDU/CrackingCancer    Chapters: (00:00) Understanding Clinical Trials (01:56) Max's Experience with Clinical Trials (05:40) Samantha's Clinical Trial Journey (08:37) Challenges in Finding the Right Trial (12:41) Max's Search for a Clinical Trial (25:16) The China Solution (31:07) Navigating Treatment Options: A Personal Journey (41:02) The Burden on Patients to Find Trials (48:50) Innovative Solutions: Patient Data Vault (58:48) The Future of AI in Healthcare   The Cracking Cancer Podcast's main focus is to further education about cancer and its effects on people and communities through continued discussion and to raise funds for the continued research of cancer treatments and positive outcomes. All raised proceeds go directly to the continued upkeep of this podcast and cancer research. To find out more about supporting the show and research endeavors, please go to the following website: www.crackingcancer.org   Attributions The music track - Progression Pulse - is provided by Denys Brodovskyi through the Attribution 4.0 International License   X: (1) Cracking Cancer Podcast (@Cracking_Cancer) / X IG: Cracking Cancer (@crackingcancerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

    1h 4m
See All (49)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Join Dr. Kyle Concannon, an MD Anderson–trained cancer doctor and scientist, together with the patient community, as we break down the knowledge and cultural barriers between cancer patients and cancer providers. Cracking Cancer empowers listeners with clear, accessible insights into cancer care, treatment options, and the complex world of cancer. Here, academic experts (providers) and experiential experts (patients) come together to discuss critical topics and build a more informed, supportive cancer community. Join us as we crack the code to better communication, knowledge, and collaboration in the fight against cancer. This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied upon as such. The views expressed are those of the participants and not of their affiliated organizations.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Concannon and the Patient Community
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Cracking Cancer Podcast

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