The Empowered (Cancer) Patient Podcast

The Cancer Support Roadmap For You, Family & Friends with Elissa Kalver

What do you say when everyone asks, "How can I help?" and you honestly don't have an answer after a cancer diagnosis? After being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, Elissa Kalver found herself facing that exact question. While friends and family genuinely wanted to support her, figuring out what she needed, and how to communicate it, was often overwhelming. Rather than accept that challenge as part of the cancer journey, she decided to create the resource she wished had existed for her. In this episode, Elissa shares how her personal experience led her to found We Got This, a nonprofit that helps cancer patients connect with meaningful, practical support through a unique gift registry and resource platform. We also discuss how humor has become one of her most powerful tools for navigating adversity, building community, and helping others feel less alone. What You'll Learn: * The five most important things to do after a new cancer diagnosis. * How a cancer diagnosis inspired the first nonprofit gift registry for patients. * Hear a relatable story about getting scan results right before a long holiday weekend. * Why the same treatment can have vastly different effects on patients. * What matters more than just surviving when in long term treatment. * How to find the best doctor and care team that is the right fit for you. * Creative ways to process and share your personal health story. Put Yourself First! Understand your diagnosis, navigate your treatment options with confidence, and advocate strongly for your own well-being. Learn more at https://drtiffanytroso.com/home [https://drtiffanytroso.com/home] Follow & Subscribe on Substack A place where complex cancer information becomes clear, where cutting-edge science meets real-world guidance, and where you learn to be the CEO of your own care, no matter where you are in your journey. https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/ [https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/] Join The Empowered Patient Community The strongest patients aren't the ones who have all the answers. They're the ones who have the right support. Join for expert guidance, practical tools, and a community that helps you navigate every step with greater confidence. ✨ Come be part of a community that puts you first. https://www.skool.com/empowered-patient-community [https://www.skool.com/empowered-patient-community] About Me - Dr. Tiffany Troso I'm a board-certified medical oncologist specializing in breast and gynecological cancers, with over 25 years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. But more than credentials—I'm here because I know the system doesn't always see you. Women like you are used to taking care of everyone else. But cancer is different. You deserve clear answers, fierce advocacy, and guidance that prioritizes you. That's what I do. Through one-on-one consults, coaching, and my signature Empowered Patient Method, I help you regain clarity, confidence, and control—without the chaos.

Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe? Managing Menopause Symptoms After Cancer With Dr. Jordan Emont

Menopausal symptoms can be debilitating and frustrating, and impact your day-to-day quality of life. Sure, hormone therapy is an option, but after breast cancer? The going consensus is that it's too risky. I love how honest this conversation is about the real options, when to make a decision, and what to consider before you do. In this episode, renowned OBGYN and menopause expert Dr. Jordan Emont breaks down the real risks and benefits of hormone therapy for cancer survivors, discussing who might be a candidate and what the data actually says. This conversation provides the clarity you need to have a more informed, empowered discussion with your own doctor about reclaiming your well-being. What You'll Learn: * Learn about the surprising study on vaginal estrogen and survival rates in cancer patients. * An oncologist's difficult conversation about what a cancer recurrence truly means. * Why the two most important doctors for a cancer survivor should be collaborating. * The essence of monitoring hormone levels for patients on hormone therapy. * The one thing that could personalize hormone therapy decisions for cancer survivors. * The core principle that guides a doctor's most difficult patient conversations. * Why the quality of life after cancer treatment requires a new medical specialty. Put Yourself First! Understand your diagnosis, navigate your treatment options with confidence, and advocate strongly for your own well-being. Learn more at https://drtiffanytroso.com/home [https://drtiffanytroso.com/home] Follow & Subscribe on Substack A place where complex cancer information becomes clear, where cutting-edge science meets real-world guidance, and where you learn to be the CEO of your own care, no matter where you are in your journey. https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/ [https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/] About Me - Dr. Tiffany Troso I'm a double board-certified medical oncologist specializing in breast and gynecological cancers, with over 25 years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. But more than credentials—I'm here because I know the system doesn't always see you. Women like you are used to taking care of everyone else. But cancer is different. You deserve clear answers, fierce advocacy, and guidance that prioritizes you. That's what I do. Through one-on-one consults, coaching, and my signature Empowered Patient Method, I help you regain clarity, confidence, and control—without the chaos.

Do Mammograms Increase Cancer Risk? A Guide To Breast Cancer Screenings & Risk with Dr. Robyn Roth

Why are so many women afraid of mammograms? Do they actually cause cancer? In this episode, breast radiologist Dr. Robyn Roth (the Boobie Doc) helps explain why a test designed to protect our health has somehow become a source of anxiety. We break down breast density, decode the language used in mammogram letters, and discuss the screening options women are rarely told about. She also directly addresses common cancer myths, including the claim that mammograms cause cancer. This conversation replaces fear with clarity, and gives you the understanding you need to advocate for your own care. What You'll Learn: * How a late-night breastfeeding session inspired the "Booby Docs" brand. * Why knowing your breast density score is important for early detection. * The supplemental screening options available if you have dense breast tissue. * Learn about the popular screening alternative that is compared to herpes. * The truth about your breast cancer risk without a family history. * How to build a relationship with your breast cancer care team. * Hear about the children's book that helps normalize conversations about breasts. Put Yourself First! Understand your diagnosis, navigate your treatment options with confidence, and advocate strongly for your own well-being. Learn more at https://drtiffanytroso.com/home [https://drtiffanytroso.com/home] Follow & Subscribe on Substack A place where complex cancer information becomes clear, where cutting-edge science meets real-world guidance, and where you learn to be the CEO of your own care, no matter where you are in your journey. https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/ [https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/] About Me - Dr. Tiffany Troso I'm a double board-certified medical oncologist specializing in breast and gynecological cancers, with over 25 years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. But more than credentials—I'm here because I know the system doesn't always see you. Women like you are used to taking care of everyone else. But cancer is different. You deserve clear answers, fierce advocacy, and guidance that prioritizes you. That's what I do. Through one-on-one consults, coaching, and my signature Empowered Patient Method, I help you regain clarity, confidence, and control—without the chaos.

A Holistic Approach to Breast Cancer for Whole-Body Wellness with Samantha Harris

What can you control when facing a cancer diagnosis, beyond treatments? When Emmy Award-winning TV host, journalist, and co-host of Dancing with the Stars, Samantha Harris, was diagnosed with stage II invasive breast cancer in 2014, it inspired a quest for answers about how we can all improve our overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and understand their underlying causes. It prompted her to write her best-selling book, Your Healthiest Healthy: 8 Easy Ways to Take Control, Help Prevent and Fight Cancer, and Live a Longer, Cleaner, Happier Life, which translates comprehensive, research-backed knowledge into an easy-to-follow action plan for maximizing health, energy and happiness for life. She joins me on the Empowered (Cancer) Patient Podcast to share her journey of self-advocacy after multiple doctors dismissed a lump that was later diagnosed as cancer. In this episode, she reveals practical, everyday strategies that supported her body's healing and empowered her to reclaim her health. Listen to discover how small, deliberate choices can make a meaningful difference in your cancer journey and overall well-being. What You'll Learn: * Why a clear mammogram was not the end of the story for Samantha Harris. * How to become your own best health advocate when speaking with your doctors. * The one daily habit most people overlook that affects their wellness. * The 10% toxic rule: a simple framework for healthier living. * How to read food labels, and the first ingredient you should cut. * Spotting and avoiding harmful ingredients in personal care products. * Small daily steps that give you more control over your health. Key Moments: 01:02 How Samantha's Family History Shaped Her View on Cancer 04:17 Trusting Your Gut, Even After a Clear Mammogram 07:30 The Power of a Second (or Third) Opinion 14:10 Samantha's Experience With Cancer Recurrence 21:34 Hidden Toxins in Everyday Beauty Products 25:35 Living Fully With the 10% Toxic Philosophy 35:04 Two Simple Swaps for a Healthier Home Put Yourself First! Understand your diagnosis, navigate your treatment options with confidence, and advocate strongly for your own well-being. Learn more at https://drtiffanytroso.com/home [https://drtiffanytroso.com/home] Follow & Subscribe on Substack A place where complex cancer information becomes clear, where cutting-edge science meets real-world guidance, and where you learn to be the CEO of your own care, no matter where you are in your journey. https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/ [https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/] About Me - Dr. Tiffany Troso I'm a double board-certified medical oncologist specializing in breast and gynecological cancers, with over 25 years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. But more than credentials—I'm here because I know the system doesn't always see you. Women like you are used to taking care of everyone else. But cancer is different. You deserve clear answers, fierce advocacy, and guidance that prioritizes you. That's what I do. Through one-on-one consults, coaching, and my signature Empowered Patient Method, I help you regain clarity, confidence, and control—without the chaos.

Genetic Screening for Cancer: Why Knowing Your Risk Matters with Krista Brown

(Part 2/4 in my The Reclaim Your Power – New Year Series) Family history is often overlooked, but it can be one of the most powerful tools in cancer prevention. In this episode, Krista Brown, a nurse and cancer survivor, explains how genetic testing following her mother's breast cancer diagnosis uncovered her own high cancer risk and led to early, life-saving treatment. Krista walks through how patients can advocate for appropriate testing, navigate healthcare barriers, and use nutrition as part of an empowered care plan. This conversation equips listeners with knowledge that can change outcomes, not just for themselves, but for their families. What You'll Learn: * How pushing for more tests led to a life-saving early cancer diagnosis. * Why your family history might not be enough to trigger crucial genetic testing. * The one thing to count in your diet daily for cancer risk reduction. * The common lunch food that could be increasing your cancer risk. * Learn about the hereditary cancer syndrome that is more common than BRCA. * How to turn a high-risk genetic result into an empowering action plan. * What to do when your mammogram is clear, but something still feels wrong. Key Moments: 00:47 How One Mother's Cancer Sparked a Lifelong Mission 03:41 The Genetic Test That Led to an Early, Life-Saving Diagnosis 07:24 Why Nurse Navigators Are Essential in Cancer Care 10:30 The Hidden Healthcare Gap in Genetic Testing 18:03 Genetic Risk Goes Beyond BRCA 25:44 Practical, Everyday Nutrition Support During Cancer 34:08 Reframing Genetic Testing as Power, Not Fear Put Yourself First! Understand your diagnosis, navigate your treatment options with confidence, and advocate strongly for your own well-being. Learn more at https://drtiffanytroso.com/home [https://drtiffanytroso.com/home] Follow & Subscribe on Substack A place where complex cancer information becomes clear, where cutting-edge science meets real-world guidance, and where you learn to be the CEO of your own care, no matter where you are in your journey. https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/ [https://drtiffanytroso.substack.com/] About Me - Dr. Tiffany Troso I'm a double board-certified medical oncologist specializing in breast and gynecological cancers, with over 25 years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. But more than credentials—I'm here because I know the system doesn't always see you. Women like you are used to taking care of everyone else. But cancer is different. You deserve clear answers, fierce advocacy, and guidance that prioritizes you. That's what I do. Through one-on-one consults, coaching, and my signature Empowered Patient Method, I help you regain clarity, confidence, and control—without the chaos.