Cancer Conversations is the podcast you never thought you’d need for the diagnosis you never want to hear. Hosted by journalist and cancer survivor, Helen King.
Brought to you by Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
How to manage anxiety and sleeplessness – with crisis expert Lance Burdett
We are wired to worry, but you can work on worrying, or you can work on what’s worryingyou – says cancer survivor and crisis expert Lance Burdett. The former lead crisis negotiatorfor New Zealand Police offers tips for dealing with anxiety and aiding sleep duringchallenging times. He says only you can control your thoughts, and acknowledgingyour fears rather than pushing them away is necessary, as they will always come back toyou.
Warning: This episode discusses mental health, depression and suicide. Discretion isadvised. If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline: Call 0800543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) or the Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508TAUTOKO) If you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
2 Oct 2024
Defining the ‘new you’ post-treatment – Hannah Cozens’ experience
Post-treatment doesn’t mean post-trauma and it can bring an unexpected range of emotions. Everyone in your world is ready for you to move on and be your old self, while you’re juggling fatigue, mourning the body you had and reconnecting with people as a person, not a patient. Cancer survivor Hannah Cozens shares her experience of navigating her new normal, and managing other people’s expectations while learning to live with the body she’s been left with, in this vulnerable account of life post-treatment.
Created for Look Good Feel Better by the C Word Radio with the support of Dry July.
25 Sept 2024
How to cope with cancer and grief – with grief coach Hannah Rae
Ultramarathon runner Hannah Rae was tough and resilient – until she lost her three wisemen, her support network, in quick succession. It showed her how important it was to have asupport team in challenging times and also forced her to re-evaluate life. That experience ledher to become a life coach specialising in grief and loss, and she shares with CancerConversations some of the tools that help people adjust to their new normal whileacknowledging that grief is ongoing, there will always be triggers to navigate.
Made for Look Good Feel Better by the C Word Radio with the support of Dry July.
18 Sept 2024
An advocate in your corner with Rata Campbell
Supporting a loved one through cancer can be a journey of discovery—especially when it’s your child. In this episode, Helen King sits down with Rata Campbell, whose son was only two when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Rata shares her deeply personal story about navigating the complexities of childhood cancer, becoming her son’s strongest advocate, and learning to adjust to a new normal; and what prompted her to advocate for others during treatment.
Don't miss this inspiring and heartfelt conversation about resilience, love, and the power of advocating for others.Created for Look Good Feel Better by The C Word Radio with support from Dry July NZ.
13 Sept 2024
How to start the uncomfortable conversations – with Treza Gallogly
Talking about your final days is never easy, but it’s one of the most meaningful conversations we can have with our loved ones. In episode 4 of Cancer Conversations, End-Of-Life Doula Treza Gallogly joins host Helen King to explore why discussing your final days is just as important as having life insurance or a Will. Treza shares compassionate and practical tips on how to approach these difficult conversations, ensuring that your wishes are understood and respected when the time comes.
Made for Look Good Feel Better by the C Word Radio with the support of Dry July.
4 Sept 2024
Three cancers at 28: The importance of a support network with Kate Wightman
Kate Wightman was 29 when she was diagnosed with three types of gynecological cancers. After discovering the limited treatment options, the former elite road cyclist was determined to raise much-needed funds and awareness for gynecological cancers.
In this episode, Kate joins Helen to share why she decided to tackle the Te Araroa trail to walk the length of New Zealand.
Topics covered:
The shock of a cancer diagnosis
Learning to accept help
The isolation of being a young cancer survivor
Walking the length of the country.
Thanks to Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
28 Aug 2024
Reconnecting with your body with sexologist Morgan Penn
In this episode, Helen is joined by somatic sexologist Morgan Penn to answer all your burning questions about sex.
Navigating sex and intimacy after a cancer diagnosis can be challenging and it's hard to figure out where to go for the right advice. Look no further! Morgan shares her wisdom to help you back on the path to pleasure.
Topics covered:
How to find your libido again
Reconnecting with your body after trauma
Rebuilding a relationship with your body
Alternatives to penetration.
Thanks to Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
21 Aug 2024
More than my cancer: Aimee-Rose Yates
In this episode, host Helen King is joined by Aucklander Aimee-Rose Yates who was 28 when she learned she had incurable bowel cancer. With the knowledge that her life would be much shorter than she had planned for. Aimee-Rose is trying to enjoy every moment. And to do this, she has created a fuck it list.
Topics covered:
Living with incurable cancer
Young people and cancer
Enjoying the little things in life
Advice to our younger selves .
Thanks to Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
6 Sept 2023
Post traumatic growth after cancer with Tommy Livingston
Trauma often follows a cancer diagnosis. It can shatter your sense of self and how you experience the world.
It also has the ability to create major growth by allowing you to decide how you want to live your life.
To talk about post-traumatic growth with Helen is Wellington-based counselor Tommy Livingston. They talk about what trauma is, why post-traumatic growth can be a powerful experience and ways you can start your healing process.
Thanks to Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
23 Aug 2023
The Feeling of Cancer with author Sandra Russell
In this episode, Helen is joined by psychotherapist and author of The Feeling of Cancer, Sandra Russell.
Diagnosed with myeloma a decade ago, Sandra penned her book after she struggled to find accounts of cancer that were like her own. Sandra reflects on the shock, anger, loneliness, and isolation of a cancer diagnosis to the joy of connecting with other cancer patients.
And why it is important to feel cancer.
Thanks to Dry July for supporting the podcast.
24 May 2023
Wellness & Cancer with Somatic Movement Coach Camille Ferruzzi
In the final episode of the season, Helen is joined by Phillidelphia-based somatic movement coach Camille Ferruzzi.
Camille was diagnosed with AML, a type of blood cancer when she was fifteen. Over the fifteen years she's been in remission, Camille has explored all sorts of wellness modalities. After training as a yoga instructor she became a personal trainer and a corrective exercise specialist. With somatics bridging her training by connecting the body, mind, and nervous system
During their conversation Camille and Helen talk about what somatic movement is, the seductiveness of wellness, and why working with the nervous system is critical to processing trauma after cancer.
Resources:
Camille Ferruzzi Instagram @circacitra
Look Good Feel Better https://lgfb.co.nz/
Helen Instagram @thecword_radio
Brought to you by Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
19 May 2023
Navigating Life & Work Post-Cancer: Sarah Hodgetts’ Story
Returning to work after cancer treatment can be a daunting prospect. In this episode, Helen is joined by Sarah Hodgetts to chat about their experiences with work and cancer.
Sarah is a resilient single parent who has experienced the rollercoaster of returning to work following cancer treatment. Diagnosed with breast cancer at 45, Sarah's world was turned upside down as she juggled her career, the demands of motherhood, and the emotional and financial toll of her diagnosis.
Her journey has given her a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the challenges faced by those re-entering the workforce after cancer, making her the perfect guest to share advice and solidarity with others.
Brought to you by Look Good, Feel Better and Dry July NZ.
10 May 2023
The Big Ordeal with author Cynthia Hayes
Have you been told to stay positive without any real guidance on how to do so? It's time to break free from ineffective coping methods and start learning the practical, evidence-based strategies that can truly make a difference in your emotional and physical well-being. Join us in this episode to discover the tools you need to navigate this challenging journey with resilience and hope.
Helen is joined by the author of The Big Ordeal, Cynthia Hayes, who was inspired to pen her book after her experience with uterine cancer.
Resources:
Cynthia's website https://thebigordeal.com/
Brought to you by Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
2 May 2023
Reclaim Your Strength: Exercise & Cancer with Candice Kitt
We have all heard about the benefits of exercise for people going through cancer treatment and beyond. But what does 'enough' exercise look like? And how do you safely get back into exercise after an event like cancer?
This week Helen is joined by Pinc & Steel physiotherapist Candice Kitt to find out what we can do to empower ourselves after a cancer diagnosis. Candice shares easy solutions for cancer patients to benefit from movement, and Helen reflects on her experience with exercise.
Resources:
Pinc & Steel https://www.pincandsteel.com/
Candice Kitt https://www.instagram.com/candicekitt/?hl=en
Brought to you with the support of Look Good Feel Better and Dry July NZ.
25 Apr 2023
Rhys Jones: The Power of Open Communication in Cancer Journeys
In honor of Anzac Day, Helen is joined by the former head of the defense force and CEO of Fire and Emergency Lieutenant General Rhys Jones (retired).
Rhys understands firsthand the importance of open communication about cancer experiences. Having served 35 years in the military, Rhys has learned to stay calm and composed in adversity. After being diagnosed with bowel cancer, he became transparent about his journey, opening up vital conversations about early detection and self-care.
Brought to you with the support of Look Good Feel Better and Dry July NZ.
18 Apr 2023
Unleash the Joy: Personal Style & Cancer Journey with Emma John
Welcome to the first episode of Cancer Conversations!
In this episode, host Helen King is joined by personal stylist and founder of Sisterhood of Style, Emma John.
After being diagnosed with breast cancer and struggling to regain control in an uncontrollable situation, Emma was forced to confront her expectations of herself as she struggled to adjust to life post-treatment.
With a background in styling and an unwavering enthusiasm for colour and pattern, Emma is passionate about empowering people to find their style. Her journey through menopause, cancer, and personal growth has only strengthened her belief in the power of dressing up and dopamine dressing.
Brought to you with the support of Look Good, Feel Better, and Dry July NZ.
2 Apr 2023
Cancer Conversations trailer
Season one launches in April!
Welcome to the podcast you never knew you'd need for the diagnosis, no one wants to hear. You'll hear from people like you navigating a cancer diagnosis and experts to help you recover.
Hosted by journalist and cancer survivor Helen King, you can expect real stories told with humour, authenticity, and hope.
Subscribe so you don't miss an episode.
Brought to you by Look Good Feel Better and Dry July.
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