Real Pink

Latest Episodes:

Episode 394: Leveraging AI In Breast Cancer Research Jul 20, 2026

Show notes

Artificial Intelligence is buzzy. There’s a lot about it in the news and a lot we think we understand about how to use it and a lot we may not fully understand. But the promise it holds is tremendous, and today we’re going to learn a little more about how it could benefit breast cancer research and patient care in the near future.

Drs. Charles Perou at UNC Chapel Hill and Erika Crosby at Duke University are two very accomplished breast cancer researchers who are joining us today to share their perspectives on using AI now and in the future.

Key takeaways

AI is improving breast cancer screening and diagnosis.
Researchers are using AI to save time on coding, writing, and data analysis.
AI can help match patients to clinical trials more effectively.
Human expertise is still needed to verify AI-generated results.
AI has the potential to accelerate research and improve patient care.

Chapters

00:00 — Introduction to AI in Breast Cancer Research

02:53 — Ethical Considerations and Responsible AI Use

04:33 — Current Clinical Applications of AI

08:12 — How Researchers Are Using AI in the Lab

11:17 — AI Limitations, Mistakes, and Critical Thinking

17:23 — The Future of AI-Assisted Cancer Research

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Episode 393: Designing Better Clinical Trials: Why Patient Advocates Belong at the Table Jul 13, 2026

Show notes

We know that clinical trials are a critical lifeline, offering new ways to prevent, detect, diagnose and treat breast cancer. Today, patient advocates are transforming clinical trials by bringing the real-world experiences of patients directly to researchers. By acting as a bridge between science and the community, patient advocates boost enrollment in clinical trials, and help build a lasting trust

Today we are speaking with Dr. Lior Braunstein, a radiation oncologist and researcher at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Dr. Ellen Landsberger, a retired OB-GYN and patient advocate, also at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Together they are working on the ARCHER clinical trial, a study that is investigating a new treatment strategy for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. We’ll talk about what they are hoping to accomplish through the ARCHER trial, what their collaborative process looks like and how patient advocates in clinical trials can help improve patient outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

Patient advocates help design better clinical trials
The ARCHER trial aims to improve treatment outcomes
Patient voices shape research from the very beginning
Clinical trials study both treatment and quality of life
Better access helps more patients join clinical trials

Chapters

00:00:00 – Why patient advocates belong at the clinical trial design table

00:04:44 – From breast cancer survivor to patient advocate

00:07:46 – How advocates shape research and address patient concerns

00:12:08 – Inside the ARCHER trial and its goal to improve metastatic breast cancer treatment

00:19:03 – Measuring quality of life and improving access to clinical trials

00:26:28 – How patients can become advocates and influence future research

Episode 392: When Your Voice Saves Your Life Jul 06, 2026

Show notes

At just 32 years old, Keisha Kinison was working in women's health when she suddenly found herself as the patient. In this episode, we'll talk about what it was like to discover her diagnosis before a physician had the chance to call, why she made the difficult decision to change doctors during treatment, how her experience transformed her and the incredible support that helped carry her through. Woven throughout every chapter of her story is one powerful message: trust yourself, advocate for yourself, and never be afraid to seek the care you deserve.

Key takeaways:

Breast cancer can happen at a young age
Self-advocacy is essential
A strong support system makes a difference
Treatment can involve unexpected setbacks
Know your body and don't ignore changes

Chapters
00:00 Keisha's breast cancer diagnosis at age 32

01:52 Testing, imaging, and receiving the diagnosis

05:12 Triple-negative breast cancer and treatment challenges

09:15 Advocating for herself and changing oncologists

12:11 The support that carried her through treatment

15:33 How cancer changed her career and advice for others

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Episode 391: Tomorrow's Breakthroughs Depend on Today's Research Investments Jun 29, 2026

Show notes

There is a lot of conversation right now about funding for cancer research and possible cuts to research projects that will improve our understanding and treatment of breast cancer. I’m pleased to be joined today by two researchers who are sharing their perspectives on the inextricable link between grant funding and sustained research.

Dr. Benjamin Schrank is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Dr. Donald McDonnell is the Glaxo-Wellcome Distinguished Professor of Molecular Cancer Biology at Duke University School of Medicine. Dr. McDonnell is a well-established researcher whose work focuses on developing new drugs to treat metastatic breast cancer.

Dr. Schrank is early in his research career and focused on harnessing the body’s immune system to improve response to treatments for metastatic breast cancer. Both recently received research grants from Susan G. Komen to support their innovative work that will help improve breast cancer care and patient outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

Breakthrough cancer treatments can take decades to develop
Fundamental research is the foundation of future therapies
Early-stage funding is critical for innovation
Research funding directly impacts patients

Chapters
00:00 Introduction

01:40 Meet the researchers and their current projects

03:45 Why medical breakthroughs take decades to achieve

11:15 The critical role of grant funding in scientific research

20:20 Supporting the next generation of cancer researchers

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Episode 390: Showing Up for Yourself Jun 22, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to the Komen Health Equity Revolution series on Real Pink — where patients, advocates, researchers and community partners come together to talk honestly about what's standing in the way of breast health equity, and what we're doing to change it.

June is Pride Month — a time to celebrate identity, community and the courage it takes to live authentically. Today's conversation sits right at the heart of that. Because advocating for yourself, knowing your body and refusing to be dismissed, that's not just a health message. That's a love letter to who you are.

Our guest today is Shelby Smith. She was 30 years old when she noticed something felt off. No family history of breast cancer. Young, healthy, going about her life as a wife and mom to a 7-year-old daughter. But she trusted herself — and that decision changed everything.

Shelby faced a 12-centimeter tumor, a bilateral mastectomy, 16 rounds of chemo and 15 rounds of radiation. She did her own research, built her own notebook, asked her own questions — and came out the other side with a message she wants every young woman to hear: Know your normal. And when something doesn't feel right, advocate for yourself.

Key Takeaways:

Trust your instincts when something feels off
Self-advocacy can change outcomes
Being informed helps patients navigate treatment
Cancer can affect more than physical health
Including loved ones in the journey matters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Shelby's Breast Cancer Story

02:07 Discovering a Lump and Seeking Answers

04:37 Diagnosis, Testing, and Receiving the News

10:07 Research, Self-Advocacy, and Navigating Treatment

17:33 Identity, Family, and Talking to Her Daughter

24:46 Life After Treatment and Advice for Young Women

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Episode 389: Cancer Doesn’t Get the Final Say Jun 15, 2026

Show notes

A breast cancer diagnosis may feel like it changes your entire life in an instant, but it doesn’t get to define who you are or make all your choices for you. On today's episode of Real Pink, we're joined by Amanda Sangemino, a remarkable young woman whose diagnosis came at an age when cancer was likely the last thing on her mind. What began with a concern that was initially dismissed ultimately led her to trust her instincts, advocate for herself, and make a series of personal decisions about her treatment and future. Throughout the process, she was determined not to let fear and cancer make every decision for her. Today, she’ll talk about the choices that she made about fertility, surgical options and maintaining an active lifestyle and why trusting yourself can be one of the most powerful tools you have.

Key Takeaways:

Mindset can play a powerful role during treatment
Trust your instincts and advocate for yourself
Maintaining normalcy can be empowering
Don't let cancer make every decision for you
A strong support system makes a difference

Chapters:
00:00 – Amanda's Breast Cancer Story Begins
01:28 – Finding a Lump and Receiving a Misdiagnosis
04:22 – Seeking a Second Opinion and Getting Answers
07:00 – Why Self-Advocacy Matters for Young Women
10:00 – Fertility, Menopause, and Treatment Decisions
14:43 – Choosing Surgery, Staying Active, and Building Support
23:09 – Amanda’s Final Advice

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Episode 388: In My Resilience Era Jun 07, 2026

Show notes

Today on National Cancer Survivor’s Day, we’re joined by a remarkable performer whose strength, vulnerability, and resilience have inspired millions around the world. She has taken the stage as a backup vocalist for numerous top artists and most recently dazzled the crowds on the biggest tour in music history with global superstar Taylor Swift. However, audiences were moved even more deeply when she chose to publicly share something far more personal – her breast cancer journey. After Jeslyn Gorman’s diagnosis become known through The Eras Tour docuseries, fans witnessed the emotional reality of navigating cancer while stepping away from a career and community she loves so deeply. From continuing to tour in the early days of diagnosis, to facing treatment side effects and returning to the stage immediately following treatment, her story is one of courage, grace and resilience. Today, Jeslyn opens up about the support she received, what survivorship looks like now and most importantly, shares an empowering message for young women about listening to their bodies, advocating for their health, and never underestimating the importance of early detection.

Key Takeaways:

Early detection can save lives.
You can experience joy and fear at the same time.
A strong support system makes a major difference.
Recovery is gradual and requires patience.
Cancer changes your life, but it doesn't define it.

Chapters
00:00 – Jeslyn’s Breast Cancer Diagnosis
05:24 – Continuing to Perform After Diagnosis
07:38 – Going Public With Her Cancer Story
13:22 – Breast Health and Self-Advocacy
18:07 – Support From Family, Friends, and the Tour Community
22:17 – Staying Positive During Treatment
25:17 – Chemotherapy and Physical Recovery
31:49 – Hair Loss and Identity

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.
37:29 – Life After Treatment and Survivorship

Episode 387: RERUN: Knowing What to Say When Someone is Diagnosed with MBC Jun 01, 2026

Show notes

This episode originally aired in November 2023.

When someone has metastatic breast cancer, it is scary for them - and for you! What can you do to really help? What should you say? Is it better to just listen? Today’s guest received a de novo metastatic diagnosis in January 2021 and then elected to retire early from a 30-year technology sales career in order to slow life down and to focus on family, friends and thriving with MBC. Carlee Dixon’s surprise diagnosis also inspired her to learn as much as possible about breast cancer and take every opportunity to educate friends and acquaintances about breast cancer prevention and the day to day reality. Today, Carlee is here to shed some light on how to best support those who are living with metastatic breast cancer.

Episode 386: The State of Women's Health May 25, 2026

Show notes

It’s Women’s Health Month — which means a lot of awareness messaging and a lot of conversation about why women’s health matters. But today, we’re going a level deeper. Because awareness doesn’t save lives. Action does. Infrastructure does. Investment does. And honest conversations about why the system isn’t working equally for everyone — those matter too.
My guest today is Jenica Patterson — a neuroscientist turned health systems architect who is doing the hard work of figuring out why women’s health is so chronically underinvested and what it will take to fix it. She leads the Women’s Health Network at the Milken Institute, one of the most powerful cross-sector coalitions in this space. Before that, she built a $113 million federal program at ARPA-H (the Advanced Research Project Agency for Health) specifically designed to fast track innovation in women’s health.

Komen is focused on breast health access — and the sobering reality that where you live and what you look like still determine whether you get a timely mammogram, an accurate diagnosis or the best possible care. Jenica has the research, the relationships and the conviction to tell us exactly why that is — and what’s possible.

Key Takeaways:

Women’s health inequities are systemic, not individual.
Nearly 30% of U.S. counties do not have a mammography machine.
Women’s health has historically been underrepresented in research and clinical development.
Innovation alone is not enough without integration.
Momentum in women’s health is growing.

Chapters

00:00 Jenica Patterson’s journey from neuroscience to women’s health systems leadership
05:45 Why women’s health is at a major inflection point
08:40 The shocking mammography access gaps across the United States
14:02 Why solving women’s health requires system-wide integration
20:03 Where momentum and hope are growing in women’s health equity

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

breastcancer #survivorship #womenshealth #cancersupport #realpink

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Episode 385: Real Talk: Oh Joy, It’s Menopause May 18, 2026

Show notes

Menopause – it may be the most unwanted time in a woman’s life. It arrives with a vengeance, forcing all kinds of emotional, hormonal and bodily changes onto women as they approach their 50s. But for women going through breast cancer treatment, it can arrive even earlier and be even more unwanted. The good news is no one has to suffer in silence.

Today's guests are Dr. Makeba Williams, the incoming president of The Menopause Society, and Claudia McConnell, a breast cancer survivor who was forced into menopause during breast cancer treatment at age 37.

Key takeaways

Breast cancer treatment can trigger sudden and emotionally overwhelming early menopause
Menopause symptoms after cancer treatment are real, serious, and treatable.
Mental health support is a critical part of breast cancer survivorship care.
Open conversations help reduce stigma and empower women to seek support.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to breast cancer and menopause realities
04:29 Claudia’s breast cancer diagnosis and sudden menopause at 37
15:42 Why survivors shouldn’t suffer through menopause symptoms alone
19:20 New menopause treatments and advances for breast cancer survivors
21:07 Sleep disruption, insomnia, and menopause management strategies
24:07 Estrogen creams, vaginal health, and treatment decision-making
30:19 BRCA2, talking to children about cancer risk, and family support
39:05 Final advice for women navigating menopause after breast cancer

Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org

breastcancer #menopause #survivorship #womenshealth #cancersupport #realpink

Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

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