Real Cancer Talk

In this powerful closing episode of our special collaborative series between The Cancer Letter and Real Cancer Talk celebrating Black History Month, we sit down with Dr. Joni Nelson, the Assistant Director for the Office of Workforce Development at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Reflecting on a month of honoring history and looking toward the future, Dr. Nelson shares her expertise on the critical intersection of education, workforce representation, and community outreach. We dive into her role in shaping the SC CADRE initiative and how MUSC is leading the way in training a more inclusive generation of oncology professionals to better serve all patient populations. More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

What does it take to become a "superhero" in the field of cancer research? In a collaboration with The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn interviews a true pioneer, Dr. Malcolm Brock. In this episode, Dr. Brock opens up about the "forks in the road" that defined his career. He discusses the influence of early mentors, his time as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford, and his fascinating detour into Japanese biotechnology research, where he even authored a book in Japanese. Dr. Brock explains how he balances the rigors of thoracic surgery with a passion for ensuring cutting-edge research is accessible for everyone. He emphasized that "it's not about getting a seat at the table because of your race... it's because you are excellent in what you do." Key highlights include: More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

"I didn't come here to just be another doctor. I came here to ask the questions that nobody else was asking, because if we don't look at the genetics of everyone, we aren't practicing medicine; we’re just practicing a subset of it." In this powerful episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with a true giant in the field of oncology: Dr. Oladele Olopade. As the Director of the Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health at the University of Chicago and a 2025 MacArthur "Genius Grant" recipient, Dr. Olopade has dedicated her career to unraveling the complexities of breast cancer and championing health equity on a global scale. In this conversation, we explore: The "Genius" Journey:Advancing the Field:The Mission of Equity:Join us for an intimate look at the life and legacy of a researcher whose work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in cancer care. More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

“The idea that I would not go to college was just not acceptable.” In this episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with the legendary Dr. Otis Brawley, a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins and former Chief Medical Officer of the American Cancer Society. Dr. Brawley shares a deeply personal look into his upbringing in Detroit, discussing how his parents, who did not finish high school, instilled in him an unshakable expectation of excellence and higher education. He reflects on the "giants" of the oncology field and provides a poignant critique of the systemic barriers that historically discouraged minority students from pursuing careers in science and medicine. This conversation serves as both a history lesson and a call to action for the next generation of medical leaders. The Power of Expectations:A Detroit Legacy:Breaking Barriers:Reflections on Giants:Whether you are a medical professional, a student, or someone interested in the intersection of social justice and healthcare, Dr. Brawley’s story offers a masterclass in resilience and the pursuit of scientific truth. More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/ Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

"We’ve made progress, but we’ve got to remember that there’s just more to do." In this latest installment of our Community Conversations series, Delegate Delores McQuinn joins Dr. Robert Winn and Clovia Lawrence to discuss the intersection of policy and the fight against cancer. Delegate McQuinn reflects on her years of service in the Virginia General Assembly, what the Virginia Cancer Caucus is and why she remains "full throttle" when it comes to advocating for her constituents' health and well-being. From the halls of the State Capitol to the neighborhoods of Richmond, this episode explores how we can bridge the gap between policy and the people it serves. Tune in to hear why community-led discussions are the heartbeat of progress in the fight against cancer. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this bonus episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn is joined by Dr. Katherine Tossas, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center Director of Catchment Area Data Analytics (CADA), and Dr. Chelsea Salyer, a gynecologic oncologist and lead for the gynecologic oncology clinical trial program at VCU Health, for a discussion focused on Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and the latest updates in cervical cancer screenings. Dr. Salyer discusses some of the misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer worldwide, important symptoms or signs and why cervical cancer is actually "eradicable". Dr. Tossas then shares her personal story with cervical cancer and what the experience taught her about the disease and prevention. LAter the three discuss the latest updates in cervical cancer screening and what the process is like for patients. Finally, Dr. Winn asks what men can do to help prevent cervical cancer. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk Massey leads an important conversation on protecting our health together by addressing HPV and cervical cancer prevention. OB-GYN specialist Dr. Tashima Lambert Giles shares powerful patient stories and explains how cervical cancer develops, who is most at risk, and why routine screening such as Pap tests and HPV testing remains one of the most effective tools for early detection and prevention. Pediatric nurse practitioner Janice McGirt highlights the critical role of the HPV vaccine, breaking down who should receive it, when to start, and why vaccination is essential for both girls and boys to prevent multiple HPV-related cancers. Together, the panel dispels common myths, answers audience questions, and emphasizes how education, access to care, and proactive prevention can save lives and reduce health disparities. FFF Website: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/ Massey Website: masseycancercenter.org Facebook: / vcumasseycancercenter Twitter: / vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 73 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk from VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with Chris Williams, owner and CEO of the SMART Modified Tour (Southern Modified Auto Racing Teams Tour), to explore an unexpected but powerful idea: motorsports can help bring cancer education and care awareness to rural communities. From the deep roots of modified racing to the tight-knit “family” culture of local tracks, Williams explains why racing is more than entertainment—it’s a community hub that reaches people where they are, especially in areas with fewer resources and fewer healthcare touchpoints. Dr. Winn connects that community-first mindset to a shared mission in cancer care: one team, one fight—and making sure people in rural regions know they have real options, real progress, and real science on their side. The conversation even moves onto the track at North Wilkesboro Speedway, as Williams gives a behind-the-scenes tour—covering racing history, safety, speed, and why partnerships between healthcare and grassroots communities can change outcomes. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode adapted from the Community Conversations podcast with Community Clovia, we welcome Dr. Kim Rhoads, the associate director of community outreach and engagement at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Rhoads provides insight on pancreatic cancer following the tragic passing of Richmond legend D'Angelo, why pancreatic cancer is more common in certain populations and what people in the community can do to be proactive in their healthcare. Later Dr. Rhoads shares about the purpose behind community engagement and why she chose to come to VCU Massey. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this Community Conversations: The Black Health Wins episode, Miss Community Clovia Lawrence welcomes Dr. Robert Winn (VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center) and clinical social worker Freda Wilkins to talk about the holiday season’s emotional highs and lows when cancer is in the picture—whether someone is newly diagnosed, in treatment, surviving, or caregiving. They unpack why the holidays can amplify stress: disrupted routines, pressure to “show up,” fatigue from treatment, grief around empty seats at the table, and the painful spotlight of well-meaning comments (“you look different this year”). Freda offers practical language that helps—shifting from “Call me if you need anything” to specific, low-effort support like “I’m at the pharmacy—what can I pick up for you?” and asking “How are you feeling today?” to let the person guide the moment. The episode then introduces Dr. Kim Rhoads, Associate Director of Community Outreach and Engagement at VCU Massey, who explains what an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center is—and why community engagement is not “extra,” but a required, scored part of how cancer centers are evaluated. Dr. Rhoads emphasizes humility in care, equity and justice for Black and brown communities, and the need for a two-way relationship (“reach out” that expects people to “reach back”). She also speaks candidly about the limits of the current healthcare system (15–30 minute visits) and why community engagement teams can become the “hand to reach for” when people have questions or need connection. The conversation closes with ways to connect with Massey’s community outreach efforts. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with Dr. Julian Adams—President and CEO of Stand Up To Cancer and one of the world’s leading oncology researchers—for a wide-ranging conversation about the past, present, and future of cancer science. Dr. Adams reflects on his journey from a childhood fascination with invention to decades of drug development in HIV and cancer, and how that path ultimately led him to Stand Up To Cancer. Together, he and Dr. Winn explore why curiosity is the DNA of science, why collaboration—not competition—drives real breakthroughs, and how Stand Up To Cancer’s “Dream Team” model is reshaping research by breaking down silos between institutions. The conversation also dives into a bold shift in strategy: focusing on early detection and cancer interception rather than late-stage disease. Dr. Adams shares how high-risk, high-reward research funded by Stand Up To Cancer has helped transform treatments—highlighting groundbreaking work in rectal cancer that has achieved 100% tumor regression in select patients. Grounded in transparency, trust, and real-world impact, this episode reminds listeners that science is not at odds with communities—it’s working on their behalf. From rural America to global cancer care, this is a conversation about hope, teamwork, and why investing in science means more people living long enough to show up for graduations, weddings, and everyday life.

Lisa Manganello has been a librarian at South Brunswick High School for the past seventeen years, where she was recognized as Educator of the Year in 2015. An active member of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, Lisa presents regularly on information literacy. Recent presentations include Now What?: Information Literacy Lessons for the High School Library, Diverse Readers, Diverse Books: New Titles to Build a Culture of Reading, and Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Information Literacy with your Librarian. In January 2024, she published an article titled “Information Literacy begins in your school library” in NJEA Review Magazine. Partnering with Dr. Joyce Valenza, Professor of Information Science at Rutgers University, Lisa helped to develop the New Jersey Open Library Tour (NJOLT) to give pre-service and practicing librarians opportunities to visit and learn from their colleagues throughout the state. She is passionate about sharing her information literacy lessons with other educators and spotlighting the value of school librarians. She has also served as a part-time lecturer at Rutgers University, where she helped to develop a course on school library climate and culture. Lisa’s work with media literacy has been featured in reports on NBC and CNN. She lives in Monmouth Junction, NJ with her husband, Matt and their two children, Andrew and Nicholas. FFF Website: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/ Massey Website: masseycancercenter.org Facebook: / vcumasseycancercenter Twitter: / vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 73 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this powerful episode of Community Conversations / Black Health Wins, host Miss Community Clovia sits down with Dr. Robert Winn, Director of VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center; Dr. Katherine Tossas, Associate Co-Director of Global Oncology; and Suzanne Brown of the Chickahominy Tribe—the catalyst behind the TRUTH Project (Trust, Research, Understand, Tell, Heal). The conversation traces how a hand-drawn map created by local residents of Charles City County—marking cancer diagnoses and deaths in a small neighborhood—sparked a major community–academic partnership. Suzanne’s personal story of losing her mother to nonsmoking lung cancer inspired her to seek answers. Dr. Tossas and the Massey team responded, launching the TRUTH Project to investigate community concerns, conduct water testing, understand cancer perceptions, and build trust where medical mistrust has long existed. Dr. Winn provides context on cancer disparities affecting Native communities nationwide, underscoring the urgency of prevention, early detection, and culturally informed outreach. The episode highlights how the TRUTH Project has grown beyond its initial research phase: training community health workers, hosting smoking-cessation workshops, expanding to all 11 Virginia tribal nations, and establishing the first Virginia Native Nations Against Cancer Coalition. The team also discusses their national publication on gaps in genetic nondiscrimination protections for Native Americans and what it means for access to cancer care and genomic medicine. Grounded in grief, activism, and collaboration, this episode showcases how community wisdom, scientific partnership, and long-term commitment are reshaping cancer prevention and care in rural Virginia—and creating a model for tribal communities across the country. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk recorded at the annual convening of the Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials program, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with Winn CDA Cohort 3 scholars Maliha Nusrat, M.D., M.S., from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Blessie E. Nelson, M.M.B.B.S., D.M.R.T., from MD Anderson Cancer Center, about what they see as the most pressing issue in the realm of clinical trials and cancer research today. Dr. Nusrat and Dr. Nelson also go in-depth on their research into pearheading new decentralized trial designs at their institutions. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with with Dr. Oluwadamilola "Lola" T. Oladeru, Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology at Mayo Clinic and 2024 Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials: Clinical Investigator Leadership Award winner, about the impact she is making in breast cancer and health equity as part of the first class on Winn Career Development Award scholars. Dr. Oladeru discusses her work in engaging historically marginalized communities like incarcerated patients, who she believes mirror what is happening in the local community. Later Later Dr. Winn and Dr. Oladeru talk about the rapidly changing landscape in cancer research and care and the inspirations in Lola's journey as a cancer researcher. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

Dr. Shanita Brown is a speaker, board certified licensed clinical mental health counselor and educator that believes in fostering transformative and empowering dialogue about intimate partner violence, Black women and mental health wellness. With over 15 years of experience in the clinical mental health field, Dr. Brown is carving out an important dimension within counselor education, the Black community, and counseling profession by intersecting Black women, domestic violence, spirituality, and mental health. She is passionate to break the silence and empower change through education, empowerment and clinical services. She is a sought out expert in mental health wellness, domestic violence and Black women. She is a servant leader dedicated to disseminating her work in a variety of ways to increase awareness and influence the next generation of advocates and leaders. Dr. Brown’s extensive service includes work with the N.C. Domestic Violence Commission Taskforce, and most recently served on the, and National Board for Certified Counselors Minority Fellowship Advisory Council. Dr. Brown has traveled throughout the country providing educational workshops and presentations to diverse audiences, including mental health professionals, collegiate campuses, advocates, faith leaders, and professional athletic organizations. She has received numerous awards, most recently the 2021 Jane E. Myers Counseling in Wellness Award by the North Carolina Counseling Association. This episode originally aired on YouTube in October 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facts and Faith Fridays: www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Community Conversations, Miss Community Clovia sits down with Kayla Nixon, public health communicator, cancer survivor, and founder of the Uterine Care Collaborative and Bloom RVA, who shares her deeply personal journey with uterine cancer and the calling it sparked to create change. Kayla opens up about what it means to navigate a reproductive health crisis as a young Black woman, the medical gaslighting she faced, and the community she built so others wouldn’t have to feel alone. She also dives into the importance of culturally relevant education, the state of advocacy in women’s cancer research, and the radical power of being seen, believed, and cared for. This episode is a moving conversation about healing, hope, and the urgent need to rewrite the narrative around uterine health one story at a time. This episode originally aired in November 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this compelling episode of Community Conversations, host Community Clovia welcomes Dr. Robert Winn and special guest Dr. Norman E. "Ned" Sharpless, Professor of Cancer Policy and Innovation at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Originally aired on KISS Richmond radio, the conversation dives deep into the intersection of cancer research, public health policy, and community engagement. Dr. Sharpless shares insights from his distinguished career, including his leadership roles at the National Cancer Institute and the FDA, and discusses how innovation and equity must go hand-in-hand in the fight against cancer. The discussion highlights the importance of building trust in underserved communities, advancing clinical trials, and shaping policies that make cancer care more accessible and effective for all. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in health equity, cancer advocacy, and the power of collaboration between science and community voices. This episode originally aired in October 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this crossover episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with with Rev. Charles Cheek, pastor of Kingdom United Fellowship, and a prostate cancer survivor to discuss Prostate Cancer Awareness month. Rev. Cheek shares his cancer journey and the importance of early prostate screenings. Later the two discuss prostate cancer in the Hampton Roads area and how to engage the community about their health. This episode originally aired in October 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this Real Cancer Talk episode—adapted from Massey's Facts and Faith Fridays series—we explore endometrial cancer. This episode highlights racial disparities, common symptoms, and the need to expand screening and care access. Guests Monika Brown, a women's health nurse practitioner, and Erika Brown, a gynecologic oncology nurse (not related), share expert insights and compassionate strategies to help break stigmas and encourage open conversations between women, their communities, and their doctors. You can also watch this episode and more from Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center on our YouTube Channel. This episode originally aired in September 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 71 National Cancer Institute-designated institutions in the country that leads and shapes America's cancer research efforts. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.