Best AIM at Melanoma Foundation Podcasts (2025)

1
The Power of Peer Support in Melanoma Survivorship 46:56

Play Pause

18d ago46:56

46:56

In this episode of Beyond the Clinic: Living Well with Melanoma, Dr. Samantha Siegel is joined by Katie Ostrovsky and Cheryl Marker from the MelaHomies community. Cheryl, diagnosed with Stage I melanoma in 2023, shares how she turned to online groups for education and support when her medical team left her with more questions than answers. Katie, a…

1
Caring Through Loss: A Conversation on Bereavement 44:57

2M ago44:57

44:57

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Dr. Wendy G. Lichtenthal, a leading expert in grief and bereavement care. Dr. Lichtenthal is the Founding Director of the Center for the Advancement of Bereavement Care at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Professor at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. A licensed clinical psycho…

1
AYA Cancer Conversation: Navigating Young Adult Cancer 38:50

3M ago38:50

38:50

In this episode, we sit down with Abby Singh, a melanoma survivor diagnosed as an Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA). Abby is now the Director of Patient Content and Nutrition Education Services at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), where she creates critical resources for patients and caregivers, including the Survivorship Workbooks. She shares …

1
Melanoma and Body Image 29:32

4M ago29:32

29:32

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rena Szabo, PsyD, a passionate advocate for integrating psychology and medicine, to discuss her unique approach to holistic, person-centered care in the field of psycho-oncology. Dr. Szabo, who works at Banner Health, specializes in understanding the complex biological, psychological, cultural, and environmenta…

1
Coping with Cancer: DBT Skills for Emotional Resilience 32:47

5M ago32:47

32:47

In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Elizabeth Cohn Stuntz, LCSW, a cancer survivor and expert in emotional well-being, to explore the power of collective wisdom and practical strategies for those touched by cancer. Elizabeth, a psychotherapist trained in contemporary psychoanalysis and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), shares her inval…

1
Parenting Through Cancer 35:08

6M ago35:08

35:08

In this deeply personal episode, Drs. Samantha and Samuel Siegel share their journey of navigating cancer, medical school, and family life together. From their time as medical students at Jefferson Medical College to the challenges they faced with Samuel's testicular cancer diagnosis and Samantha’s battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, their story highli…

1
Healing Through Creativity: Art Therapy in Cancer Care 27:13

7M ago27:13

27:13

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of art therapy in cancer care. Art therapy goes beyond traditional treatment by offering patients a creative outlet to express their emotions, manage stress, and find relaxation during their journey. Emphasizing the process over perfection, art therapy creates a safe, supportive space for indiv…

1
Surviving & Thriving: From Melanoma Survivor to Sun Safety Advocate 28:05

8M ago28:05

28:05

In this episode, we speak with Ann Roseman, a melanoma survivor since 2020, who shares her personal journey with cancer and how it shaped her mission to advocate for sun safety. Ann’s background in Human Development and Family Studies, combined with her experience as a Certified Child Life Specialist, allowed her to make a meaningful impact in heal…

1
The Role of Language in Self Advocacy and Support 34:10

9M ago34:10

34:10

In this episode, we sit down with Noa Curtis, LCSW, APHSW-C, an outpatient oncology social worker at the Providence Cancer Institute in Portland, Oregon. Noa specializes in palliative care and provides holistic support to cancer patients and their families from diagnosis through survivorship or end of life. They discuss their approach to palliative…

1
Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy: Finding Purpose in the Face of Cancer 33:39

10M ago33:39

33:39

In this episode, we speak with Brian Jin, LCSW, a psychotherapist specializing in Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy (MCP) at Yale New Haven Health’s Smilow Cancer Hospital. Brian shares his journey and experience supporting cancer patients through MCP, an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals find meaning and hope amidst illness. He disc…

1
Beyond the Clinic's New Host: Dr. Sam Siegel Brings a Fresh Voice to Survivorship 35:47

11M ago35:47

35:47

In this special episode of Beyond the Clinic: Living with Melanoma, Dr. Raymond Liu and Dr. Sam Siegel sit down for an insightful and heartfelt conversation as Dr. Siegel steps into her new role as host. With a shared passion for cancer survivorship, the two discuss Dr. Siegel’s personal journey as a cancer survivor and caregiver, her vision for th…

1
Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy for Cancer Patients 28:15

12M ago28:15

28:15

In this episode, we talk with Dr. William Breitbart, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and a pioneer in psycho-oncology. Dr. Breitbart sheds light on the critical yet often overlooked issue of meaning and purpose in cancer care. He delves into how patients may encounter a pro…

1
Surviving the Spotlight: From Melanoma to Filmmaking 32:30

1y ago32:30

32:30

In this compelling episode of “Surviving the Spotlight,” we sit down with Jessica Gilstrap, a melanoma survivor and independent filmmaker, whose inspiring journey from cancer diagnosis to creative success is both moving and motivating. At just 19 years old, Jessica's life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Stage IV Melanoma—a disco…

1
Restful Recovery: Navigating Sleep and Cancer with Dr. Daniel Barone 23:19

1y ago23:19

23:19

Join us for an insightful episode of "Restful Recovery," where we explore the crucial interplay between sleep and cancer with Dr. Daniel Barone, a leading expert in sleep medicine. Dr. Barone, the Associate Medical Director at the Weill Cornell Center for Sleep Medicine, shares his extensive knowledge and experience in the field, offering valuable …

1
Summit of Survival: Tobi's Journey Beyond Melanoma 31:43

1y ago31:43

31:43

In this episode, we are joined by Tobi Sample, a melanoma survivor, to share an extraordinary and inspiring story. Today, prepare to be moved and inspired as we delve into Tobi's miraculous journey of survival against melanoma. Tobi, ten years ago, faced a diagnosis that would have halted many in their tracks. But not Tobi. To celebrate her 10th an…

1
Navigating the Storm: Managing Stress and Anxiety Through Your Cancer Journey 32:03

1+ y ago32:03

32:03

In this deeply insightful episode of our podcast, we explore the often-hidden challenges melanoma patients and survivors face—stress and anxiety. Living with melanoma or surviving it is a testament to strength, but it comes with its own set of emotional hurdles. To shed light on this critical issue and offer some groundbreaking strategies for copin…

1
Having Difficult Conversations 28:53

1+ y ago28:53

28:53

In this episode, we unlock one of the most challenging aspects of the cancer journey — having difficult conversations. Whether you're a caregiver, a patient in the throes of treatment, or a survivor navigating life after cancer, this episode is for you. Our guest, Bridget Sumser, LCSW, a Clinical Social Worker, offers insights, guidance, and suppor…

1
Fear of Cancer Recurrence 29:25

1+ y ago29:25

29:25

Surviving cancer or finishing treatment often leaves survivors feeling elated, as if they've conquered the world. However, there's also a profound, more vulnerable emotion that many experience: the fear of recurrence, or the dread of cancer returning. Although it's a common fear among survivors, dealing with this fear can be challenging. It poses a…

1
Navigating the Journey Together - Conversations with Melanoma Caregivers 27:40

1+ y ago27:40

27:40

In today’s episode, we're talking about a profoundly touching topic—caring for someone with melanoma. Today, we're discussing the roles, challenges, and triumphs of those who stand by their loved ones in the fight against melanoma—caregivers. They are the unsung heroes who provide the support and strength needed to face each day anew. Our guests: S…

1
Exploring the Healing Power of Animals 32:47

1+ y ago32:47

32:47

Ever wondered how animals can make a huge difference in people's lives? 🐶🐱 In this podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of animal-assisted therapy and explore its incredible benefits for both physical and mental well-being. From calming anxiety to promoting social interaction, animals undeniably impact human happiness and healing. 🌟 Join us…

1
Memoir as Medicine: The Healing Power of Writing Your Messy, Imperfect, Unruly (but Gorgeously Yours) Life Story 30:01

1+ y ago30:01

30:01

Writing has been medicine for Nancy Slonim Aronie. At nine months old, her son Dan was diagnosed with diabetes. Then, at twenty-two, he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. During the years she and her husband took care of Dan, and when he died at age thirty-eight, Aronie could not find the book she needed. So she wrote her memoir. In teaching me…

1
Vitality Should be on the Table for All Cancer Survivors 31:51

2y ago31:51

31:51

Join us as we dive deep into the emotional path of survivorship. Dr. Liu sat down with Samantha Siegel, MD, a relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma patient, to discuss her walk as a physician, caregiver, cancer patient, mom, and wife. This powerful podcast episode explores the highs, lows, and everything in between. Dr. Sam shares her inspiring stor…

1
The Clinical Trial Experience: A Patient’s Perspective 33:40

2y ago33:40

33:40

In 2010, Mary Elizabeth Williams was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma. The following year, she was offered the opportunity to participate in a Phase 1 immunotherapy clinical trial. She wrote about that experience in A Series of Catastrophes and Miracles: A True Story of Love, Science, and Cancer. In this episode, Mary Elizabeth shares her story a…

1
Melanoma Cancer and Financial Toxicity 28:50

2y ago28:50

28:50

While being diagnosed with cancer alone can put a person under tremendous amounts of mental and emotional stress, the additional burden of outrageously expensive medical care only adds to the strain. Cancer treatment requires more than medicine — families need a roof over their heads and food on their tables to survive. The dramatic rise in the cos…

1
That Good Night: Life and Medicine in the Eleventh Hour 33:09

2y ago33:09

33:09

A growing discipline, palliative care medicine remains underutilized. Studies suggest that patients and providers commonly confuse palliative care with end-of-life care. In this episode, Dr. Liu is joined by Dr. Sunita Puri, Program Director of the Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center & Chan S…

1
Becoming a Melanoma Caregiver- Now What? PART III, with guest host, Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center 27:49

2y ago27:49

27:49

Last year, over 197,000 Americans were diagnosed with melanoma—and we know they won’t go through that experience alone because there will be a caregiver, usually a family member or close friend, at their side. Becoming a caregiver is often unexpected and life-changing. To talk about the benefits of caregiving, the types of support that are most eff…

1
Dealing the Emotional Rollercoaster that Follows a Melanoma Diagnosis : PART II with guest host, Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center 29:03

2y ago29:03

29:03

Receiving a melanoma diagnosis can be an overwhelming and life-altering experience. The emotional rollercoaster that follows can be intense, as individuals navigate through fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Coping with these emotions is crucial for maintaining mental well-being during the treatment process. Fear and anxiety is often the first emotion…

1
I've Been Diagnosed With Melanoma...Now What? PART I with guest host, Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center 25:21

2+ y ago25:21

25:21

The test results are back. You’ve talked to the doctor and learned you have melanoma. Whether it’s your first or fifth melanoma diagnosis, your reaction to a new melanoma diagnosis often comes down to a single question: What do I do now? To help you navigate your next steps after a new melanoma diagnosis, Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, and AIM's Ask a…

1
Why Peer Support is Important for People Coping With Melanoma 31:03

2+ y ago31:03

31:03

People living with melanoma often benefit from practical help and advice from others who have lived through similar situations. Support groups bring people together and provide a safe forum for exchanging perspectives, sharing concerns, and gaining confidence to face the future. Of course, each of us has to find a way of dealing with a melanoma can…

1
A Beginner’s Guide to the End: Practical Guide To Living Life and Facing Death 30:50

2+ y ago30:50

30:50

“There is nothing wrong with you for dying,” hospice physician B.J. Miller and journalist and caregiver Shoshana Berger write in A Beginner’s Guide to the End. “Our ultimate purpose here isn’t so much to help you die as it is to free up as much life as possible until you do.” An honest, surprising, and detail-oriented guide to the most universal of…

1
The Unexpected Journey of Caring 30:12

2+ y ago30:12

30:12

Guests Donna Thomson and Dr. Zachary White discuss their book The Unexpected Journey of Caring. Becoming a caregiver is one transformation that comes at us, requiring us to rethink everything we once knew. Everything changes—responsibilities, beliefs, hopes, expectations, and relationships. Caregiving is not just a role reserved for “saints”—eventu…

1
Transformation after Trauma 28:21

2+ y ago28:21

28:21

Our lives are filled with ups and downs, triumphs and tragedies, and success and stress. The question is not whether we will experience difficulty, challenge, or trauma; it is what we will do in response to such events and experiences. In this episode, Dr. Richard Tedeschi joins us to discuss how people can grow in the aftermath of trauma and live …

1
Functional Nutrition for Cancer Survivors 31:14

2+ y ago31:14

31:14

In this episode, we welcome Dione Detraz, RD, integrative dietitian nutritionist and author of The Cancer Diet Cookbook: Comforting Recipes for Treatment and Recovery, to talk about cancer nutrition for cancer survivors. A healthy, strong, and balanced immune system is critical in preventing infection and in chronic diseases such as cancer. In this…

1
The Grieving Brain: The Science of Love and Loss 31:40

3y ago31:40

31:40

Our guest Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor is a renowned grief expert, author, neuroscientist, and an associate professor of psychology at the University of Arizona, where she directs the Grief, Loss, and Social Stress (GLASS) Lab, which investigates the effects of grief on the brain and the body. In this episode, she discusses groundbreaking discoveries …

1
The Future of Melanoma Treatment: 2023 and Beyond (Special Edition) 31:19

3y ago31:19

31:19

Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS from UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, and Vernon Sondak, MD, Chair, Department of Cutaneous Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute in Tampa, Florida, join host Raymond Liu, MD, for a discussion about the future of melanoma in 2023 and beyond. Treatments combining immunotherapies with targeted therapies, which d…

1
Living Beyond Melanoma: A Conversation with Stage IV Melanoma Survivor, Stephanie Bowen 26:45

3y ago26:45

26:45

In this episode, Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, AIM's "Ask a Medical Expert" and host of the webinar series, "From the Clinic to the Living Room," joins our podcast as our guest host and welcomes Stage IV Melanoma Survivor, Stephanie Bowen to the program. Stephanie shared her personal journey with melanoma from receiving the diagnosis and going throug…

1
Talking to Your Care Team about Your Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity 32:55

3y ago32:55

32:55

While it may be an uncomfortable topic to bring up, sharing your sexual orientation and gender identity with your cancer team can help improve your overall care. As we’ve discussed many times on this program, communication is key to improving your experience and ensuring you’re receiving the best and most tailored, care for you. Chastity Burrows Wa…

1
Spirituality and Cancer Care 30:46

3y ago30:46

30:46

When faced with a cancer diagnosis, some patients rely on their spirituality to cope and find meaning behind the experience. For some, spirituality is a belief in a higher power. For others, it’s simply a recognition that there is something greater than oneself. In this conversation, Michael Eselun discusses how patients, caregivers, and others fac…

1
The Trouble with Toxic Positivity 27:49

3y ago27:49

27:49

When going through difficulty, many people turn to friends and family for support. But what happens when those people dismiss your feelings and tell you to “look on the bright side?” While it may be said with the best of intentions, this is an example of toxic positivity. In this episode, Whitney Goodman, author of the book Toxic Positivity: Keepin…

1
Sun Safety and Psychological Challenges 35:57

3+ y ago35:57

35:57

Many skin cancer survivors develop high anxiety regarding sun exposure and being outside, especially during summer. How can active coping strategies and behavioral changes help patients address these concerns? In this conversation, we’ll discuss the psychological impacts of UV exposure on patients and how you can continue to live life to the fulles…

1
Survivorship: Living Well with Melanoma 34:07

3+ y ago34:07

34:07

Cancer Survivorship begins the moment you learn of your diagnosis and continues long after treatment. And thanks to medical advances, more people are surviving cancer than ever before. Survivorship care is changing quickly to address the complex needs of patients and their families for the duration of their cancer experience. What does it mean to l…

1
Being Your Own Advocate 34:47

3+ y ago34:47

34:47

In today's busy medical practices, you need to be involved in your own care (or that of a loved one) to assure the best care. In this episode of Beyond the Clinic: Living Well With Melanoma, Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, and AIM's "Ask a Medical Expert," and Dr. Raymond Liu, Director of Cancer Survivorship for Kaiser Permanente San Francisco, discuss…

1
Drawing Strength From Music with Mary Adelyn Kauffman, DMA, MT-BC, NMT, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center 39:05

3+ y ago39:05

39:05

Music can play a powerful role in helping patients find strength and comfort both during and after treatment. During this engaging episode, Dr. Kauffman will demonstrate several methods for using music to train concentration, reduce reactivity, and induce a relaxation response. Mary Adelyn Kauffman, conductor, vocal coach, and pianist, studied at t…

1
Building Psychological Resilience in the Face of Hereditary Risk 38:24

3+ y ago38:24

38:24

Living with hereditary cancer risk can be extremely stressful for all cancer patients. In this episode, Dr. Karen Hurley shares insights on managing and coping with anxieties surrounding risk and uncertainty. Karen Hurley, PhD, joined the Cleveland Clinic in 2016, bringing with her almost 20 years of experience as a licensed clinical psychologist s…

1
Conversations About Immunotherapy and Caregiving 37:39

3+ y ago37:39

37:39

Guest: Melissa Wilson In this episode, Dr. Raymond Liu, Director of Cancer Survivorship at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco, and host of AIM's podcast, "Beyond the Clinic: Living Well with Melanoma, and Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, Melanoma Lead at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, and AIM's Ask a Medical Expert, come together to address the many questions…

1
The Role of Social Media in Patient Care 34:08

4y ago34:08

34:08

This episodes discusses the role of social media in patient care with Dr. Don Dizon. Dr. Dizon is the Director of the Pelvic Malignancies Program at Lifespan Cancer Institute, Head of Community Outreach and Engagement at The Cancer Center at Brown University, and Director of Medical Oncology at Rhode Island Hospital. Living with melanoma is emotion…

AIM At Melanoma Foundation Podcasts