"My Cancer, My Plan" Podcast
A podcast for men facing cancer and the people who care about them
The Men's Health Network My Cancer, My Plan podcast helps men and families navigate cancer with clear information, real conversations, and practical guidance.
Each episode features discussions with cancer patients, oncologists, researchers, and advocates focused on personalized cancer care, biomarker testing, mental health, and survivorship. This podcast is designed to help men ask better questions, understand their options, and take an active role in their cancer journey.
Listen and learn. Take control of your plan.
Listen Anywhere You Get Your Podcasts!
Six Podcast Episodes
Episode 1:
"Living With Cancer, Biomarkers, & Patient Advocacy for Men"
Featured Guests:
Tom Butina, Pfizer
Roy Barnes, Former Georgia Governor
Episode Focus:
- Living with cancer as a man
- Patient advocacy and trusted cancer education
- Why credible resources matter after diagnosis
Why it Matters:
Men are often overwhelmed after a cancer diagnosis and unsure who or what to trust. This episode sets the foundation for the series by showing why patient voices, credible education, and advocacy are essential to navigating cancer with confidence.
Episode 2:
“Know Your Code: Biomarkers & Genetic Testing 101”
Featured Guests:
Katherine Baker, MD, Tennessee Oncology
Michael Holtz, Man Up To Cancer
Jon Treffert, Cancer Survivor
Episode Focus:
- Biomarkers and genetic testing explained in plain language
- How testing guides treatment decisions
- Real patient experiences with personalized cancer care
Why it Matters:
Many men never receive biomarker testing unless they ask. Understanding your cancer at the molecular level can change treatment options, avoid unnecessary side effects, and open access to targeted therapies or clinical trials.
Episode 3:
“The Side Effects Nobody Talks About”
Featured Guests:
Jim Haselmaier, Cancer Survivor
Akanksha Mehta, MD, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University
Episode Focus:
- Physical and emotional side effects of cancer treatment
- Managing quality of life during care
- Honest conversations men are often hesitant to have
Why it Matters:
Side effects can affect mental health, relationships, work, and daily life, yet men are less likely to talk about them. This episode creates space for honest discussion and helps men recognize when to ask for support.
Episode 4:
“Cancer Equity & the Change the Odds Initiative”
Featured Guests:
Marianne Gandee, Pfizer
Arif Kamal, MD, American Cancer Society
Episode Focus:
- Cancer equity and access to care
- Addressing disparities in outcomes
- National efforts to improve cancer education and resources
Why it Matters:
Where you live, your race, income, and access to care can affect cancer outcomes. This episode highlights why closing these gaps is essential to improving survival and ensuring men receive timely, high-quality care.
Episode 5:
“The Ones That Stay: The Caregiver Episode”
Featured Guests:
Ken Phillips, Cancer Patient
Debbie Phillips, Cancer Caregiver
Episode Focus:
- The caregiver experience during cancer
- How partners and families support men through treatment
- Navigating cancer together as a family
Why it Matters:
Caregivers are often the backbone of cancer care, yet their needs are rarely discussed. This episode recognizes the emotional and physical toll on caregivers and reinforces that cancer is a shared journey.
Episode 6:
“Trials, Treatments, & Tough Decisions”
Featured Guests:
Aisha Diallo, Patient Empowerment Network
Episode Focus:
- Understanding treatment options and clinical trials
- Making informed decisions during cancer care
- Patient empowerment and advocacy tools
Why it Matters:
Cancer decisions are complex and often time-sensitive. This episode helps men understand their options, ask informed questions, and feel empowered when facing difficult treatment choices.
Patient-focused cancer education that makes sense!
Who This Podcast Is For
Who This Podcast Is For
Who This Podcast Is For
- Men who have been newly diagnosed
- Men living with cancer / men in active treatment
- Cancer survivors and follow-up care
- Loved ones and families
Families and Caregivers
Who This Podcast Is For
Who This Podcast Is For
- Supporting caregivers, partners, communities, and family members
- Ways that loved ones can support men through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship
What You Will Learn
Who This Podcast Is For
What You Will Learn
- How to navigate a cancer diagnosis
- Questions to ask your care team and how to advocate
- Understanding treatment and care
- Mental health, stress, sleep, and quality of life
Cancer Care Topics
Who This Podcast Is For
What You Will Learn
- Biomarkers and genetic testing explained in plain language
- Care options and personalized cancer
- Patient stories and lived experiences
- Support resources