The Healing Beam

Jarod
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The podcast that demystifies radiation therapy so you can move forward with confidence and clarity. Hosted by Jarod Hershberger, a Board-Certified Medical Physicist who works behind the scenes in cancer treatment, The Healing Beam replaces the anxiety of the unknown with the assurance of knowledge, through easily digestible episodes in 15 minutes or less.

Episodes

  1. The Human Side of Physics in Radiation Therapy

    Apr 16

    The Human Side of Physics in Radiation Therapy

    Summary In this heartfelt season finale episode, Jarod Hershberger shares his personal journey into medical physics, the importance of understanding radiation therapy, and how knowledge can empower patients and alleviate fears. He emphasizes the human connection behind the science and offers insights into the precision and compassion involved in cancer treatment. Chapters 00:00 The Heart of Radiation Therapy 01:03 My Journey to Medical Physics 03:25 Understanding Radiation Therapy 05:29 The Role of the Medical Physicist 06:28 The Human Connection in Treatment 10:16 Core Lessons from the Season 10:52 Closing

    12 min
  2. Your Guide to Caregiving in Radiation Therapy

    Apr 10

    Your Guide to Caregiving in Radiation Therapy

    This episode offers practical guidance for caregivers supporting loved ones undergoing radiation therapy. It covers emotional support, logistical help, managing side effects, and self-care strategies to sustain caregivers' well-being.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Caregiving in Radiation Therapy 01:44 Emotional Support and Presence 04:59 Practical Day-to-Day Care 07:42 Self-Care for Caregivers 10:12 Closing

    11 min
  3. Understanding Anxiety in Radiation Therapy

    Mar 26

    Understanding Anxiety in Radiation Therapy

    This episode offers practical strategies for managing anxiety before and during radiation therapy. Hosted by Jarod Hershberger, a medical physicist, it covers common fears, coping techniques, and how to turn treatment into a more manageable experience. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Anxiety in Radiation Therapy 04:14 Coping Strategies Before Treatment 05:54 Techniques During Treatment 07:53 Long-Term Coping and Support 10:53 Recap and Resources

    13 min
  4. How Do I Tell Them? Talking About Radiation with Loved Ones

    Mar 19

    How Do I Tell Them? Talking About Radiation with Loved Ones

    This episode offers practical strategies for patients undergoing radiation therapy to communicate effectively with loved ones, including children, family, friends, and wider social circles. It emphasizes setting boundaries, providing age-appropriate information, and managing emotional labor during treatment and recovery. 00:00 Navigating Tough Conversations About Radiation Therapy 01:50 Talking to Kids About Radiation Therapy 04:56 Communicating with Family and Close Friends 06:59 Engaging with Friends and Wider Circle 08:59 Empowering Loved Ones Without Overwhelm 10:29 Post-Treatment Communication and Boundaries

    13 min
  5. The Hardest Part: Waiting in Radiation Therapy

    Mar 12

    The Hardest Part: Waiting in Radiation Therapy

    This episode explores the emotional and practical aspects of waiting during radiation therapy, offering strategies to cope with uncertainty and maintain mental well-being.00:00 The Challenge of Waiting in Radiation Therapy 01:52 Understanding the Types of Waiting 05:16 Strategies to Cope with Waiting 08:52 The Work Behind the Scenes 11:02 Closing Thoughts on Waiting

    12 min
  6. Radiation Roadmap: The Treatment Planning Process Explained

    Mar 5

    Radiation Roadmap: The Treatment Planning Process Explained

    In this episode of Healing Beam, Jarod Hershberger, a medical physicist, breaks down the complex process of radiation therapy treatment planning. He explains how treatment plans are personalized for each patient, detailing the steps involved from simulation to quality assurance. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding this process for reducing anxiety and empowering patients during their treatment journey. 00:00 Understanding Radiation Therapy 01:24 The Radiation Treatment Plan 02:51 Steps in the Planning Process 08:59 Patient Experience During Treatment 10:15 The Importance of Understanding Your Treatment

    13 min
  7. First Day Nerves? How to Start Radiation with Confidence

    Feb 26

    First Day Nerves? How to Start Radiation with Confidence

    In this episode of The Healing Beam, Jarod Hershberger guides listeners through the experience of their first day of radiation therapy. He addresses common anxieties, offers practical preparation tips, and explains the treatment process in detail. The episode emphasizes the importance of mental preparation, understanding the role of healthcare professionals, and the significance of self-care following treatment. By demystifying the experience, Jarod aims to empower patients and reduce their fears surrounding radiation therapy.00:00 Facing the First Day of Radiation Therapy 03:28 Understanding the Treatment Process 05:27 The Treatment Room Experience 08:33 Completing Your First Session 09:51 Post-Treatment Reflections

    11 min
  8. 5 Must-Ask Questions Before Starting Radiation Therapy

    Feb 19

    5 Must-Ask Questions Before Starting Radiation Therapy

    In this episode of The Healing Beam, Jarod Hershberger, a medical physicist, discusses the essential questions patients and caregivers should ask before starting radiation therapy. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the goals of treatment, managing side effects, knowing the duration of therapy, practical guidelines during treatment, and having a clear point of contact for concerns. By asking these questions, patients can take charge of their health and feel more informed and supported throughout their treatment journey.00:00Introduction to Radiation Therapy Questions 01:55Understanding Treatment Goals 03:20Managing Side Effects 04:47Treatment Duration and Planning 06:05Practical Guidelines During Treatment 08:52Communication with Care Team

    12 min
  9. Meet the Team: Who’s Who in Radiation Therapy

    Feb 12

    Meet the Team: Who’s Who in Radiation Therapy

    In this episode of Healing Beam, Jarod Hershberger introduces listeners to the essential members of a radiation oncology team, explaining their roles and how they contribute to patient care. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these roles to reduce anxiety and empower patients during their treatment journey. From radiation oncologists to support staff, each member plays a crucial part in ensuring safe and effective treatment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Radiation Therapy Team 01:31 The Core Team: Key Roles Explained 08:45 The Support Team: Behind the Scenes 10:53 Teamwork in Radiation Therapy: A Mission to Mars 13:21 Conclusion: Empowering Patients Through Knowledge

    14 min
  10. Does Radiation Hurt? The Truth About Treatment

    Feb 5

    Does Radiation Hurt? The Truth About Treatment

    Summary In this episode of The Healing Beam, host Jarod Hershberger addresses common concerns about radiation therapy, particularly focusing on whether it hurts. He reassures listeners that the treatment itself is painless, while also discussing potential side effects and the importance of mental preparation. The episode emphasizes the role of the care team in managing side effects and providing emotional support, along with practical tips for patients preparing for their first session. Chapters 00:00 Does Radiation Therapy Hurt? 03:30 Managing Side Effects and Expectations 09:02 Mental Preparation and Emotional Support 11:23 Practical Tips for Your First Session

    14 min
  11. Radiation Myths That Might Be Scaring You

    Jan 29

    Radiation Myths That Might Be Scaring You

    In this episode of The Healing Beam, Jarod Hershberger addresses common myths surrounding radiation therapy, aiming to provide clarity and reassurance to patients and their families. He discusses misconceptions about radiation making patients radioactive, the pain associated with treatment, the safety of radiation, its use as a first-line treatment, and the individualized nature of therapy. By debunking these myths, Jarod emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding in alleviating fears related to radiation therapy. 00:00 Understanding Radiation Therapy Myths 10:59 Quick Myth Busting Session

    14 min

  12. 11/05/2025

    Your First Radiation Session. What Really Happens.

    In this episode of Healing Beam, Jarod Hershberger, a medical physicist, guides listeners through the process of radiation therapy, addressing common fears and misconceptions. He emphasizes the importance of understanding what to expect during treatment, highlighting that sessions are typically painless, quick, and conducted in a supportive environment. The episode aims to reassure patients and their families, providing insights into the treatment process and encouraging open communication with healthcare teams.

    9 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

The podcast that demystifies radiation therapy so you can move forward with confidence and clarity. Hosted by Jarod Hershberger, a Board-Certified Medical Physicist who works behind the scenes in cancer treatment, The Healing Beam replaces the anxiety of the unknown with the assurance of knowledge, through easily digestible episodes in 15 minutes or less.

Information

  • Creator
    Jarod
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jarod
  • Show Website
    The Healing Beam