Candidly with Carolyn

About Candidly with Carolyn

All of us are affected by The Big C, or will be. CwC is a collection of candid conversations amongst those who have, as well as those contributing to better Cancer Futures - recorded for you to eavesdrop in on. Listeners can expect honest and in-the-moment real-talk, an array of human perspectives and exploration on topics that aren't being discussed enough amongst friends, family members and in the public discord. Hosted by non-Hodgkin Lymphoma cancer survivor and your thrivership hypewoman, Carolyn V.

Publisher

Carolyn Van

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

18 Nov 2024

Latest episode

29 May 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 May 2026

   We all goof and get it wrong sometimes, no matter how secure our relationships are with Dr. Anne Katz, Sexuality & Cancer Author, Registered Nurse & Counsellor

   It isn't just about being grateful for "surviving" cancer. We deserve more than this. It's about living quality lives. This includes thriving in our intimate relationships and sex lives, whether 25 or 70 years old. Shifts in feelings, attitudes and abilities in sexuality and intimacy can be challenging. For some, sex lives can change dramatically after cancer. When it comes to going there, there are few and far between who does it like Dr. Anne Katz. We are thrilled to introduce you to the award-winning author, registered nurse and counsellor. Things get a bit spicy on this episode. So, if talking about intimacy, masturbation, vibrators, penises and vulvas makes you uncomfortable...listen in :). Let's get comfortable. Expect real stories, medical insights, and practical advice for navigating intimacy and sexuality after cancer. Whether you're a researcher, practitioner, patient or survivor - we're excited for you to get to know the human behind her decades worth of internationally renowned works and wisdom on sexuality x cancer. We discuss vital intersections of healthcare, sexuality and communication, clinician-patient dialogue, and addressing intimacy issues in medical practice. We explore the complex emotional and physical aspects of intimacy, fertility, and relationships for young adult cancer survivors. There are many things we can do to have healthy sex lives after cancer. So, let's get our groove back, shall we? And by back, this might mean - different. Not worse - but different. And in some cases, even better than it ever was. Hit that play button. Meet Dr. Anne Katz! (00:35)-An introduction (04:20)-Why direct-to-patient matters (06:20)-Practitioners must reflect (07:11)-It all started with....drawing penises? (09:35)-"It didn't feel like I was making a difference" (12:36)-"Some clinicians are afraid to say 'sex life' " (14:45)-What patients need to know about sexuality and cancer (16:56)-Sex Therapists VS. Sexual Medicine (19:26)-Do nurses just do it better? (20:42)-Who & When of bringing up the sexual side effects (28:22)-"I've never told him that when he touches me there, it feels awful" (30:42)-"The only thing that gets me through....is when he can't see the tears coming down my face" (32:42)-Reaching a point of desperation? (33:15)-"Just be glad you're alive" (33:46)-He ran out of the room! (36:46)-Moments that stay with Dr. Katz (38:15)-The reality of Fertility Costs (40:44)-I can't have children. Who is going to want me? (41:17)-Q: Post-treatment libido & numbness (48:22)-Spontaneous Desire, Accelerators & Breaks (53:20)-Q: It's painful to watch her go through metastatic breast cancer. How could I bring sex up? (54:17)-The Bell Ringing thing (54:56)-Partners that leave (56:08)-Q: My wig and makeup through physical intimacy (1:02:34)-Q: When and how do I tell my dates? -- Learn more about Dr. Anne Katz ⁠⁠here (https://www.drkatzcounselling.com/)⁠⁠ and her new book here (https://www.amazon.ca/Cancer-Sex-Intimacy-Couples-Guide/dp/1421453789). What did you resonate with? Leave us a comment or give us a rating! Share this episode and subscribe to CANDIDLY WITH CAROLYN everywhere podcasts are found. Have a question for an episode? Email us ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠candidlythepod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (mailto:candidlythepod@gmail.com)⁠⁠ Follow @candidlythepod ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://instagram.com/candidlythepod) ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.candidlythepod.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.candidlythepod.com/) __ The views and opinions expressed do not represent the opinions of any podcast partners - but rather solely of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast at the very moment of recording. We are all human and are constantly learning and evolving.  What is shared in these conversations is for consideration only. This podcast must not be in place of official professional research, medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance.

2. 

   12 Apr 2026

   It changed everything. The AMA cancerversary episode with Carolyn.

   You asked. She answers. Carolyn is happily passing the mic to others with CANDIDLY - guiding you through a variety of very human cancer-related experiences, and tackling your questions with guests. But some of you sneakily found a way to send in questions for her. She - finally - got around to answering them. Enjoy this personal reflection guided by what you wanted to know. For Carolyn, March 19th carries some weight. It's the day she had been awoken in her hospital bed at Toronto General Hospital by a gentle nudge and the sight of the attending doctor and his posse of bright eyed bushy tailed residents staring down at her. Before she could rub her eyes and sit upright, she heard was "Blah bleh bleh bleh. Lymphoma Cancer". She was 28 years old, in her prime, and it was this very moment when her very active life was abruptly halted. *Cue tire screeching sound effect* 12 years and a great deal of intentional efforts to process - she likes to take a moment every year on the day to acknowledge the event that ended up changing everything for her. This year, she added answering your Ask Me Anything (AMA) questions to her 03/19 rituals. Well....that was the plan, at least. Ooops! (00:00)-An intro to this episode. (00:36)-Things didn't go according to plan. March was...a month. (01:39)-It's a remarkable thing. (02:19)-The complex relationship with hospitals (and University Health Network - UHN). (04:29)-Q: Have you processed everything? (06:17)-Q: What's the craziest thing someone said? (10:20)-Q: What did cancer change for you? (15:37)-Q: What's your favourite CwC interview? (19:15)-Q: What was the toughest part about being diagnosed with cancer? (24:42)-Q: Is there anything you would you have done differently? (29:22)-Q: How did you move on? (32:30)-Q: How would you have liked to be supported by those closest to you other than the platitude of "Get well soon" and "You got this!"? (36:45)-Q: How did sex and intimacy change for you? (39:10)-Thank you & Wrap up. -- What did you resonate with? We'd love to know! Leave us a comment or give us a rating! Share this with someone in your life who might also appreciate this episode. Subscribe to CANDIDLY WITH CAROLYN on Apple, Spotify, everywhere podcasts are found. Have a question for a future episode? Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠candidlythepod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ (mailto:candidlythepod@gmail.com)⁠⁠ Follow @candidlythepod ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ (https://instagram.com/candidlythepod) ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.candidlythepod.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.candidlythepod.com/) __ The views and opinions expressed do not represent the opinions of any podcast partners - but rather solely of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast at the very moment of recording. We are all human and are constantly learning and evolving.  What is shared in these conversations is for consideration only. This podcast must not be in place of official professional research, medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance.

3. 

   5 Mar 2026

   I had to work out in my mind 'What does manhood look like?' with Chris Ho, Testicular Cancer Survivor & Leadership Coach

   It all began in the year that was 2013. Chris Ho was in his early-30s, living a normal young professional life. It was an exciting time! And then….he was hit with a testicular cancer diagnosis. A profound story that includes some loss - including that of both of his testicles - but what he gained was palpable and life changing. Chris and Carolyn share some parallels in their lives - even far beyond being disrupted by The Big C while building out their adult lives in young adulthood. From how facing mortality head-on changed their inner wirings, our comfort with the topic of mortality, being a child of Vietnamese refugees who courageously fled from their war-torn motherland with parents who survived what most of our worst nightmares are made of, and how cultural differences, influences and evolving generational values plays a role in how they move through life today. Through this hang out, you’ll get to learn about how Chris’ testicular diagnosis happened, how being faced with a gendered cancer changed his relationship with masculinity, how this carries through in raising two young boys, and how all of this might have contributed to some generational healing. We're so happy to introduce you to Chris Ho through this heartfelt and candid conversation! Go ahead and hit that play button. (00:50)- Welcome to this conversation & an intro to Chris Ho. (04:13)-The beginning. "My health was fine. I had no health issues. Life was good" (05:14)-"I felt a little lump" (09:16)-When Chris received the news (10:50)-The Surgery. (14:45)-Cancer shows up again. This time, in another way. (15:20)-Chris sees dad cry for the first time ever. (18:40)-We don't talk about death enough. (20:19)-Facing the possibility of death - and - celebrating a new life. At the same time. (22:54)-The invaluable gift Chris received in final day moments. (28:22)-This first generation is so impressive! (30:15)-How a gendered cancer shifted Chris' understanding of manhood and masculinity. (35:35)-Mental Health as the biggest struggle. (39:40)-What we could do a better job with when it comes to mens mental health (46:44)-How Chris' experience has shaped how he approaches fathering two young boys (53:54)-How much do Chris' young boys know about cancer and death? (56:33)-Question from Lillian (1:04:20)-Question from Niraj (1:10:50)-Question from Christoff (1:15:15)-Question from Alexander (1:21:00)-Final thoughts. What Chris would also like to see more of. -- Learn more about Chris Ho ⁠here (https://www.consciousstudio.ca/)⁠. We're thrilled to know that he is offering guidance to future leaders - or those who might want to level up in their work - through his conscious leadership practice. What did you connect with or enjoy most from this conversation? Drop us a comment or give us a rating! Follow/Subscribe to Candidly with Carolyn on Spotify, Apple, and everywhere podcasts are found - and we’ll promise to bring you more human-first conversations like this one about life with and after cancer. Have a question for a future episode? Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠candidlythepod@gmail.com (mailto:candidlythepod@gmail.com)⁠⁠ Follow Candidly With Carolyn ⁠⁠⁠on Instagram⁠⁠⁠ (https://instagram.com/candidlythepod) ⁠⁠www.candidlythepod.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.candidlythepod.com/) __ The views and opinions expressed do not represent the opinions of any podcast partners - but rather solely of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast at the very moment of recording. We are all human and are constantly learning and evolving.  What is shared in these conversations is for consideration only. This podcast must not be in place of official professional research, medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance.

4. 

   19 Dec 2025

   The burden and impact is insane with Dr. Cedric Tremblay, Leader in Pediatric Hematological Diseases & Asst. Professor, Immunology

   Host Carolyn interviews Dr. Cedric Tremblay, a leader in pediatric hematological diseases, about patient centricity in research, cross-border collaboration, and the future of cancer research, revealing insights into his personal journey and advice for emerging scientists.

5. 

   17 Nov 2025

   I was 28. I didn't want to stop and talk about what was happening with Sam Megarry, Psychotherapist and Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer Survivor

   Host Carolyn interviews Sam Megarry, Psychotherapist and Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer Survivor, about how cancer impacts one's relationship with change, navigating therapy, and wellness narratives, offering insights into holistic patient support.

6. 

   9 Oct 2025

   I didn't want them to worry about losing their only parent with Aisha McClellan, Stage 4 Cervical Cancer Survivor & Patient Advocate

   Stage 4 cervical cancer survivor and patient advocate Aisha McClellan discusses how cancer as a young mother changed her approach to parenting and womanhood with host Carolyn, in this interview episode.

7. 

   25 Aug 2025

   Using social media is the entire reason I'm still here with Katie Coleman, Software & AI Engineer & Rare Cancer Patient Advocate

   Host Carolyn interviews Katie Coleman, Software & AI Engineer and Rare Cancer Patient Advocate, about navigating life and advocacy after a stage four cancer diagnosis.

8. 

   2 Jul 2025

   Unifying a country to tackle pressing issues with Dr. Fei-Fei Liu, Scientific Director at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR)

   Host Carolyn interviews Dr. Fei-Fei Liu, Scientific Director at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), about unifying cancer research efforts in Canada and addressing the rising incidence of cancer, especially in younger populations.

9. 

   6 Jun 2025

   06: How would you like to be categorized? with Carmen Monge, Author, Researcher & Globe Trotting Cancer Patient Advocate

   Carmen Monge, author and cancer advocate, discusses accessibility, biases, and patient-informed language in cancer care with Carolyn during this interview episode.

10. 

    23 Apr 2025

    05: Preventing past trauma from causing future harm with Yee Won Chong and Brooks Nelson of Trans Dudes With Lady Cancer

    Carolyn welcomes Yee Won Chong and Brooks Nelson, filmmakers of Trans Dudes With Lady Cancer on to the pod! Hang out with us talk about their experiences with breast and ovarian cancer, their 'whys' behind the documentary, and answer your questions. From knowledge gaps, identity disruption, examination room anxieties, and complicated family dynamics - Carolyn, Yee Won and Brooks highlight themes of human-centred care, the power we have as patients and practitioners, and what advocating for ourselves and loved ones can look like. Learn more about Trans Dudes With Lady Cancer at https://www.transdudeswithladycancer.org/ We hope you get to catch a screening! If you are interested in hosting one, get in touch with Yee Won and Brooks. (https://www.transdudeswithladycancer.org/take-action) What did you connect with or enjoy most from this conversation? Drop us a comment! Rate us and Follow/Subscribe to Candidly with Carolyn for more. Have a question for a future episode? Email us at candidlythepod@gmail.com (mailto:candidlythepod@gmail.com) (00:25)-Welcome To Our Conversation! (03:02)-Chosen Family (04:44)-Creating the Film: 4 Goals and Motivations (13:55)-Strains on Culturally Competent Practitioners, an example from Yee Won's experience (17:20)-The Impact of Personal Biases, an example from Brooks' experience (19:30)-The Importance of Trust Healthcare Relationships (20:44)-Practitioners advocate for us too (22:00)-Not everyone has the same access (22:40)-How do we get comfortable with advocating for ourselves? (24:50)-Stop taking HRT? (30:00)-Practicing advocacy for others (31:25)-What Yee Won and Brooks learned from their seat in the house (36:40)-When Brooks' gynaecological oncologist felt nervous (41:25)-When the "early detection" messaging is not enough (43:58)-Question from Sameer (46:57)-That - is - some BS (47:40)-Question from Edith (50:20)-Question from Evan (53:55)-How to Watch Trans Dudes With Lady Cancer and a Cheers To Life! ______________________ The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast - and do not represent the opinions of podcast partners. While what is shared in these conversations is for consideration, this podcast should not be in place of official professional medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance.

11. 

    31 Mar 2025

    04: It is not all in your head with Dr. Scott Adams, Founder of Cancer Fatigue Services

    Carolyn welcomes Dr. Scott Adams, CEO and Director of Research & Training of Cancer Fatigue Services on to the pod. Hang out with us as we catch up, share laughs and go all in on a topic that can interfere with day-to-day function and tasks of those even 15+ years post-diagnosis and treatment. Cancer Fatigue can be severe enough to significantly disrupt the lives of 1/3 of those living with and after cancer. Scott gives us a rundown of what cancer fatigue is, the complexities, the prevalence, the contributing factors and symptoms, fascinating cases, and good news in the spirit of progress in this very specific area of recovery. From our experiences being minimized and dismissed, common misconceptions, and experiencing cognitive interference - Carolyn and Scott highlight themes of advocacy, accessibility, what the evidence is showing us, and the power of multidisciplinary approaches to care as they answer your questions. If you could use some support talking about cancer-related fatigue with your doctor, family, friends, supporters or team members go ahead and use this resource (https://www.candidlythepod.com/post/e4_cancerfatigueadvocacy) when self-advocating. It’s sprinkled with evidence-based goodness that you can lean on. This was inspired by Priyanka's Question, featured in this episode. Learn more about Cancer Fatigue Services at https://cancerfatigueservices.com/ (https://cancerfatigueservices.com/) . CFS is the very first of it's kind in Canada and amongst the very few in North America. What did you connect with or enjoy most from this conversation? Drop us a comment! Rate us and Follow/Subscribe to Candidly with Carolyn for more. Have a question for a future episode? Email us at candidlythepod@gmail.com (00:25)-Welcome to our conversation! (06:17)-What Is Cancer Fatigue? (08:15)-They are whole people (10:20)-What prompts cancer patients to look into Cancer Fatigue? (15:50)-When Cancer Fatigue can develop and reach its peak (17:15)-Long-term effects of cancer treatment & The Sandcastle analogy (29:03)-Myths and misconceptions of Cancer Fatigue (32:40)-Is Cancer Fatigue psychosomatic? (35:30)-A hot take on self-diagnosing culture (40:45)-Is there a gendered piece to Cancer Fatigue? (42:55)-Question from Priyanka (45:59)-Effects of exercise, counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, and pharmacotherapies (47:20)-Advocacy is important. How do we do this? (52:20)-Question From Sam (53:37)-Cognitive dysfunction in cancer patients (56:15)-Taking medication vs. counselling, rehab, nutrition, exercise (01:00:15)-Question From Caitlin (01:03:40)-The role of aerobic exercise in cognitive function (01:04:20)-What might my personal trainer need to know? (01:06:20)-Where might engagement about Cancer Fatigue be missing? (01:14:20)-We need The Avengers! (01:17:45)-Cancer Fatigue Services wins & hopes for the future ______________________ The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast - and do not represent the opinions of podcast partners. While what is shared in these conversations is for consideration, this podcast should not be in place of official professional medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance.

12. 

    26 Jan 2025

    03: Finding your people and navigating community with Stefanie Anne Rico, Trauma-Informed Therapist

    Carolyn welcomes trauma-informed therapist and integrated wellness practitioner, Stefanie Anne Rico on to the pod. On this episode, we explore themes of community, ancestry and spirituality through healing and grieving. Your questions lead Carolyn and Stefanie through a discussion on community, culture, healthy communication, and navigating the emotional landscape of cancer - while emphasizing the need for understanding in both personal and professional contexts. Put on some soft pants and cozy up with us for this conversation. Learn more about Stefanie Anne Rico, Integrated Wellness Practitioner at ⁠⁠https://www.stefanieannerico.com/ (https://www.stefanieannerico.com/) What did you connect with or enjoy most from this conversation? Drop us a comment! Rate us and Follow/Subscribe to Candidly with Carolyn for more. Have a question for a future episode? Email us at candidlythepod@gmail.com (00:25)-Welcome to our conversation! (04:21)-Community and Its Significance (09:04)-Navigating Grief and Personal Loss (12:25)-Everyone Has a Connection to Cancer (14:15)-My Roots Are My Superpower (19:18)-Surrendering When Fighting For Your Life (23:28)-Decolonizing Therapy and Embracing Diversity (25:25)-Understanding Bias and Perspectives in Therapeutic Relationships (29:08)-Question from Kate (29:38)-Communicating Needs in Times of Crisis (33:30)-The Emotional Landscape of Caregiving (37:48)-Finding Your Community (38:50)-Question from Aparna (41:40)-It Starts With Us (45:40)-Seeking Familiarity When Thrusted into Chaos (46:00)-Question from Francine (48:40)-Caregivers Need Care Too (52:00)-A Sense of Agency For Cancer Patients ______________________ The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast - and do not represent the opinions of podcast partners. While what is shared in these conversations is for consideration, this podcast should not be in place of official professional medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance.

13. 

    23 Dec 2024

    02: Shifts in relationships and empathizing with others with Ariz Bhimani, Founder of BRFZY

    Carolyn welcomes Ariz Bhimani, testicular cancer survivor and Founder of recovery undergarment line BRFZY on to the pod. On this episode, we get personal, Ariz flashes his briefs, we geek out and catch up on venture building and of course, address questions submitted by you. From supporting others with cancer, shifts in our friendships and dating, and seeking help amidst overwhelm Carolyn and Ariz highlight familiar themes of empathy, relating, adaptability and going for it. Through those peak pandemic isolation days some started families, some ended up with fur children but for Ariz, he got diagnosed with testicular cancer at the age of 20 years old. Ariz understands the challenges that come with physical recovery from treatment in the pelvic area all too well. He knows all too well the difference products like BRFZY can have on those recovering from surgery, chronic conditions and sports. Make yourself a snack and hang out with us as Carolyn and Ariz share laughs and relate over life, venture building and moments along their cancer experiences. Survivor-on-survivor style. Learn more about Ariz's pandemic baby, BRFZY and get on that launch list at ⁠brfzy.com⁠ (https://brfzy.com/) Follow BRFZY on instagram: ⁠instagram.com/brfzy2023 (https://instagram.com/brfzy2023) What did you connect with or enjoy most from this conversation? Drop us a comment! Rate us and Follow/Subscribe to Candidly with Carolyn for more. Have a question for a future episode? Email us at candidlythepod@gmail.com (00:26)-Welcome to our conversation! (02:39)-Catching up with Ariz (05:15)-Ariz's 2024 BRFZY VentureLesson Learned (07:32)-When Things Don't Go According To Plan (10:40)-Truths of the Venture Building Wild-Wild-West (11:15)-BRFZY and Ariz's cancer diagnosis (13:35)-The Impact on Relationships (19:25)-A Disconnect Between Our Inner and Outer Selves (20:30)-What Morpheus said to Neo (21:55)-So...Where Is That Confirm Override Button? (24:05)-A Strategic Pause? (28:08)-How You Feel is How You Feel (30:07)-Chemo, Show Me You Mean It! (33:00)-Question from Ayushi (34:30)-Processing Cancer Looks Different For Everyone (36:22)-Our Aging Parents (37:05)-De-centering Ourselves When Supporting Others (43:12)-Question from Nerosa (47:10)-A New Standard For Relationships? (48:22)-Disclosure Of The Big C While Dating (53:50)-Grieving Our Pre-Cancer Self and Relationships (57:00)-Question from Evan (59:50)-Traits of Comfort and Belonging (01:01:25)-Advocating for Ourselves (01:03:08)-Therapy as Part of the Standard Treatment Plan (01:05:19)-Things to look forward to from BRFZY in 2025 ___________________ The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast - and do not represent the opinions of podcast partners. While what is shared in these conversations is for consideration, this podcast should not be in place of official professional medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance.

14. 

    18 Nov 2024

    01: Financial and back-to-work hurdles with Ilene Shiller, Program Manager at Wellspring

    Carolyn welcomes Ilene Shiller from Wellspring on to the pod to discuss the relationship between cancer, work and finances. What financial cost considerations are often unaccounted for? What and how do we bring up the C word when job seeking? Ever since your diagnosis, have you experienced shifts in your professional interests? From shifts in professional interests, what to say to hiring managers, feeling a lack of motivation, and what to do when everyone else seems to be levelling up in their careers while you've been fighting for your life - we address questions submitted from 4 individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer. Pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea and hang out with us for this conversation. Being diagnosed, living with and living after cancer can be overwhelming, as it is. Part of the overwhelm includes the significant financial health implications. In fact, up to 40% of cancer patients in Canada report experiencing financial distress*. Those who submitted questions for this episode were diagnosed with cancer under the age of 40 years old. Compared to non-cancer cancer peers, young adults who have been impacted by cancer (an under-researched, often mis-understood and vulnerable sub-segment within cancer population) are 1.4X more likely to have outstanding credit card debts**. Learn about Wellspring and their programs at ⁠wellspring.ca⁠ (https://wellspring.ca/) What did you connect with or enjoy most from this conversation? Drop us a comment! Rate us and Follow/Subscribe to Candidly with Carolyn for more. Have a question for a future episode? Email us at candidlythepod@gmail.com (00:28)-Welcome to our conversation! (02:00)-Catch up with Ilene and intro to episode (02:35)-The Financial Impact of Cancer (07:42)-Uncovering Hidden Costs That Cancer Patients Face (11:59)-Seeking Support. Resources for Financial and Career Recovery (15:34)-Question from Jillian (17:34)-Living the Life of Work (21:31)-Feeling Behind in Life (22:50)-Question from Jake (23:44)-Career Gaps and Job Seeking (25:00)-Swivelling conversations away from cancer (28:00)-Question from Kelly (29:00)-Disclosing cancer (31:39)-When bringing up the C word might be beneficial (34:55)-Question from Jamie (35:33)-Big questions that come after trauma (37:41)-Shifts in identity (40:40)-Getting back that motivation mojo ___________________ The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the podcast author, or individuals participating in the podcast - and do not represent the opinions of podcast partners. While what is shared in these conversations is for consideration, this podcast should not be in place of official professional medical advice, mental health advice, mental health counselling or therapy, or as imparting any health care recommendations at all. While those on the podcast might have lived and professional experiences with cancer, it is important to seek support from health professionals who can take the time to assess and analyze your specific circumstance. *Fitch MI, Longo CJ. Emerging understanding about the impact of financial toxicity related to cancer: Canadian perspectives. **YAC Prime Study

Who has been a guest on Candidly with Carolyn

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Dr Cedric Tremblay
• Sam Megarry
• Aisha McClellan
• Katie Coleman
• Dr Fei-Fei Liu

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

7,323

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 48 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

37

Social presence

91

YouTube

68

Engagement

32

Contact Candidly with Carolyn

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

Questions about Candidly with Carolyn