"Wine with Shelly and Shelly" is a podcast hosted by two women who are passionate about supporting those affected by cancer.
The podcast aims to provide valuable information and community for cancer survivors, caregivers, and anyone seeking information about cancer.
Topics will cover a wide range, including research, treatments, coping strategies, inspiring stories, expert interviews, and the latest trends in cancer care.
Episode 16: Navigating the Unexpected: Breast Cancer, Asking for Help, and a Surprise Love Story
Welcome back to Wine with Shelly and Shelley!
In this episode, we kick things off with a quick update on what's happening at Breathe Inc, including our excitement for the upcoming second annual golf outing to help ease the financial and emotional burdens of a cancer diagnosis.
Then, we sit down with the wonderful Kara for an incredibly honest and heartwarming conversation about her breast cancer journey. Kara takes us through the shock of her diagnosis and the overwhelming feeling of navigating a foreign medical system, sharing how leaning on her sister's medical background and utilizing symptom care clinics completely changed her quality of life during treatment.
We dive deep into the reality of "chemo brain," the challenge of learning to ask for (and accept) help as a fiercely independent single mom, and the most practical ways you can actually support a loved one facing a diagnosis—hint: skip the extra blankets and focus on financial or everyday practical support.
Finally, you won't want to miss Kara's "movie-worthy" love story. She shares how a simple Bumble swipe just weeks before her diagnosis brought her the dream guy who showed up and stayed when life got unimaginably hard.
Whether you're a patient, a caregiver, or just looking for an inspiring story of resilience and love, this episode is a beautiful reminder that you don't have to walk this path alone.
Resources Mentioned:
Breathe Inc & Sparkling Survivor: Support for financial toxicity, healthcare navigation, and emotional guidance during a cancer diagnosis.
(Don't forget to like, follow, and share so we can continue helping others find the resources they need!)
10 Apr 2026
Episode 15: Stripped Bare: Redefining Beauty and Purpose with Christine Handy
What happens when the industry that defined your value for 30 years is suddenly at odds with your survival? In this episode, Shelley (Sparkling Survivor) and Shelly (Breathe Inc.) sit down with international model, author, and "cancer disruptor" Christine Handy. Christine opens up about the "whiplash" of a breast cancer diagnosis at the height of her career, the grueling reality of 28 rounds of the "Red Devil" chemo, and how she eventually found her most beautiful self at age 50—without implants or a mask.
24 Mar 2026
Episode 14: Surviving the Mack Truck: Mindset, Faith, and Colorectal Cancer with Deb
From literal highway collisions to life-altering diagnoses, this episode is all about the "hits" we don't see coming. Shelley (Sparkling Survivor) shares her harrowing morning encounter with a dump truck, leading into a deep conversation with their guest, Deb. Diagnosed with colorectal cancer at 50, Deb discusses the importance of following your gut when symptoms are dismissed as "just hemorrhoids." Learn how her "Mama Bear" instinct and unshakable faith helped her navigate radical surgery and life with a permanent colostomy with grace and a smile.
3 Mar 2026
Episode 13: Paws, Prayers, and Presence: The Healing Power of Comfort Dogs
In this heart-filling episode, Shelly and Shelley explore the profound impact of "unconditional love on four legs." They are joined by Faith, a representative from the K9 Comfort Dog Ministry, to discuss how these specially trained Golden Retrievers provide a bridge for healing and emotional release.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
Community Support: Local Breast Cancer Awareness Month initiatives, including "Putting the Brakes on Cancer" at Advanced Auto in Delavan and upcoming cocktail specials at The Abbey Resort.
The "Fall Off the Train" Analogy: Shelly shares a personal story about recovery, the struggle of getting back into a routine after an injury, and the importance of being kind to yourself during the journey.
Meet Mary and Rejoice: Discover the incredible work of the Comfort Dogs from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Janesville. These dogs aren't just pets—they are trained professionals with over 2,000 hours of experience.
Healing Across the Community: From disaster response (like emergency deployments to Minneapolis) to visiting the Rock County Jail and sitting bedside with cancer patients at the end of life, learn how these dogs "walk side-by-side" with those in need.
The Science of "Just Being": Why dogs are uniquely equipped to break through isolation and "plague" feelings often associated with a cancer diagnosis through their non-judgmental presence.
Whether you are a patient looking for a "furry bridge" to open up or a caregiver seeking a moment of peace, this episode highlights the beautiful synergy between animal companionship and the cancer journey.
3 Feb 2026
Episode 12: The Gift of Today: Jim’s Journey through AIDS, Addiction, and Lung Cancer
What happens when life gives you more than your fair share of "The Big C"? Shelley (Sparkling Survivor) and Shelly (Breathe Inc.) sit down with Jim, a man whose spirit is as resilient as they come. From surviving the AIDS epidemic of the 90s and finding 22 years of sobriety with his partner, to his current battle with stage IV lung cancer, Jim shares why he chooses gratitude over the "rabbit hole." It’s a powerful conversation about the small gestures—like a cherry popsicle—that define a lifetime.
20 Jan 2026
Episode 11: Unraveling the Mystery of Cording: Rose Holland’s Journey with Axillary Web Syndrome
In this episode of Wine with Shelley and Shelly, the hosts share exciting updates from Breathe Inc., including the success of their recent golf outing and the launch of the new "Designated Cancer Fund" campaign, which allows donors to leave a legacy by directing funds to specific types of cancer research and support.
Then, they welcome special guest Rose Holland, a blogger and breast cancer survivor, to discuss a common but often overlooked side effect of breast cancer treatment: Axillary Web Syndrome, also known as "cording". Rose opens up about her personal experience, the importance of early physical and occupational therapy, and how she pivoted to a life of travel and joy after her diagnosis.
16 Dec 2025
Episode 10: The Squeaky Clean Miracle: Beating Stage 4 Against the Odds
Leonard Simpson recounts his inspiring journey through male breast cancer and stage 4 lung cancer, emphasizing the power of faith and positive attitude in an interview with Shelley and Shelly.
5 Nov 2025
Episode 9: Beyond Tradition: A Pancreatic Cancer Survivor's pH Story
Pancreatic cancer survivor Jeff from MyCancerCareStory.com shares his unconventional journey of using pH balancing and bicarbonate mixtures to combat cancer after traditional treatments failed, in an interview with Shelley and Shelly.
17 Sept 2025
Episode 8: Beyond the Bottle: A Sober Chat on Fasting and Frugal Self-Care
Shelley and Shelly explore the unexpected benefits of fasting, discussing intermittent versus prolonged fasts and their impact on energy and mental clarity, alongside free self-care practices like grounding and sunlight exposure.
26 Aug 2025
Episode 7: Whales, Wanderlust, and What Truly Matters
Shelley and Shelly discuss Shelley's RV adventures in Baja, Mexico, embracing minimalism, and redefining life after a cancer diagnosis.
5 Aug 2025
Episode 6: It's Okay to Not Be Okay: A Conversation on Surviving Depression with Bo
Shelley and Shelly interview Bo, founder of Surviving Depression, Inc., who shares his experiences battling depression as a military veteran and highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for open conversations.
15 Jul 2025
Episode 5: "I Am Not My Diagnosis": A Survivor's Story of Mindset, Secrecy, and a Second Chance
Cancer survivor Sandy recounts her multiple myeloma diagnosis while caring for her mother, her decision to keep it secret, and how mindset helped her through treatment in an interview with Shelley and Shelly.
3 Jun 2025
Episode 4: Let's Talk About Sex, Cancer, and Healing
Shelly and Shelly interview Gina L. Maxwell, a New York Times bestselling author, and Christine Hopkins, an intuitive coach, about sexuality, intimacy, and healing during a cancer journey, offering insights into reclaiming one's body and sense of self.
19 Mar 2025
Episode 3: Facing Cancer Together; Navigating Cancer as a Couple
Episode 3 of "Wine with Shelley and Shelly" features a heartfelt conversation with guests Tina and Don, who bravely share their experience with Don's cancer diagnosis and treatment. Hosts Michelle and Shelley from Breathe, Inc. and Sparkling Survivor guide the discussion, exploring Don's initial symptoms and the realities of chemotherapy, including a humorous anecdote about his snoring during treatment. Tina offers a moving account of being a caregiver, from her initial shock and fear to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting her husband. They delve into the financial burdens, the importance of a strong support network, and the often-underestimated impact of "chemo brain." Despite the difficulties, Don shares his inspiring journey to becoming cancer-free. The episode also emphasizes the vital work of Breathe, Inc. and Sparkling Survivor in providing support to cancer patients and caregivers and ends with an intriguing preview of their next episode's topic: sex after cancer.
5 Mar 2025
Episode 2: Unexpected Guests, Unforgettable Stories: Animals, Emotions, and Cancer Support
In this heartfelt episode of "Wine with Shelley and Shelly," the hosts, two passionate advocates for those affected by cancer, dive into the power of music, emotional connection, and the unexpected sources of healing. Shelley and Shelly share a moving experience from a local music event, discussing how a powerful song, "Survivor," resonated deeply with the challenges faced by cancer patients. They explore the importance of feeling emotions, the danger of being defined by illness, and the strength found in shared burdens.
Unexpectedly, the episode takes a delightful turn with the introduction of a special guest: Ridge, a dog, and his owner, Shawn. They discuss the profound impact animals have on mental and emotional well-being, particularly for those navigating difficult health journeys. Shelley and Shelly highlight the supportive services their organizations offer, including pet therapy, and emphasize the importance of community, connection, and finding moments of joy amidst challenging circumstances. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the diverse paths to healing and hope.
3 Jan 2025
The Beginning!
This podcast episode introduces Shelley and Shelly, two women who are passionate about supporting people affected by cancer. They are the founders of Sparkling Survivor, a for-profit business focused on cancer consulting and coaching, and Breathe Incorporated, a nonprofit focused on providing resources and support to cancer patients.
The podcast aims to be a resource for people with cancer, caregivers, and anyone else seeking information about the disease. The hosts will cover a wide range of topics, including:
Latest research and treatments
Coping with the emotional and physical challenges of cancer
Inspiring stories
Interviews with experts
Latest trends in cancer care
They will also share resources and connect people with the help they need. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset but also acknowledges the challenges and difficult emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis.
Who has been a guest on Wine with Shelley and Shelly
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Leonard Simpson
Jeff
Bo
Sandy
Gina L Maxwell
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
97
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 21 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
17
Social presence
0
YouTube
63
Engagement
0
Contact Wine with Shelley and Shelly
Guest appearances
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