エピソード

  • 34. From Young Investigator to Leader: Dr. Cassie Kline & Pediatric Brain Tumor Care

    34. From Young Investigator to Leader: Dr. Cassie Kline & Pediatric Brain Tumor Care
    2025/08/26
    Welcome to another powerful episode of the Game Over: c*ncer podcast by Cannonball Kids’ cancer Foundation (CKc)!

    In this conversation, hosts Dana and Val sit down with Dr. Cassie Kline, attending physician and Director of Clinical Research in the Department of Neuro-Oncology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

    Dr. Kline shares her journey into pediatric oncology, her personal connection to cancer research, and her role in advancing innovative treatments for children with brain and spinal cord tumors. From her early days as CKc’s first Young Investigator to serving on CKc's Scientific Advisory Board, Dr. Kline’s story highlights the critical impact of research funding, mentorship, and collaboration in creating real hope for families.

    You’ll hear insights on:
    • The challenges young investigators face and why early funding is crucial
    • How clinical trials and immunotherapy are changing the future of pediatric brain tumor care
    • The role of CKc’s Scientific Advisory Board in ensuring the most innovative research is funded
    • Dr. Kline’s perspective as a woman in STEM and the importance of diversity in medicine
    This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about pediatric cancer research, advocacy, and the fight to deliver better treatment options for kids.

    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.


    Connect with our Guest Dr. Cassie Kline: https://www.chop.edu/doctors/kline-cassie
    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/
    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/

    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    39 分
  • 33. From Curiosity to Commitment: Becoming a Nonprofit Board Member

    33. From Curiosity to Commitment: Becoming a Nonprofit Board Member
    2025/08/12
    In this inspiring episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we sit down with Clifton Scott, COO at AdventHealth for Flagler and St. John’s Market, and a passionate board member at Cannonball Kids’ c*ncer Foundation (CKc). We dive deep into what board service really looks like—from training and fiduciary responsibility to leadership, diversity, and alignment with your purpose.

    Whether you’ve served on a board before or are curious about getting involved, Clifton’s journey through the Black Boardroom Leadership Institute and into meaningful nonprofit service is eye-opening, encouraging, and packed with valuable insights. He shares what he learned from his first nonprofit audit, how corporate leaders can show up for their communities, and why board service isn’t just for the experts—it’s for those willing to grow, learn, and lead with heart.

    Topics Covered:
    • The truth about nonprofit board service
    • How leadership training prepared Clifton for CKc
    • Why diversity in the boardrooms matters
    • Balancing board service with a full-time career
    • What every new board member should know



    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/
    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/

    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    30 分
  • 32. Behind the Gold Gala: The Power of Partnership in Philanthropy

    32. Behind the Gold Gala: The Power of Partnership in Philanthropy
    2025/07/29
    In this inspiring episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we sit down with two incredible community leaders and pediatric cancer advocates — Dr. Michelle Norden, a board-certified pediatrician, and her husband, Nick Norden, a personal injury attorney at Norden Leacox Accident and Injury Law.


    From attending the first Gold Gala, to co-chairing the event two years in a row, the Nordens share how saying "yes" to leadership unlocked a whole new level of passion and impact in CKc's mission. They open up about balancing family, careers, and philanthropy — and how the power of their partnership helped them lead with joy.

    You’ll hear:
    • How Michelle’s experience as a pediatrician fuels her advocacy
    • Nick’s personal motivation to give back through his law firm
    • Why community involvement can be both meaningful and fun
    • Their new adventure: Running the 10K for CKc at the 2026 Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend Presented by State Farm
    Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or considering getting involved for the first time, this episode is a heartwarming reminder that small steps can lead to big impact. There’s a place for everyone in the fight against pediatric cancer.

    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/
    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/

    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    30 分
  • 31. Behind the Ripple Effect: How Women Are Leading the Fight Against Pediatric Cancer

    31. Behind the Ripple Effect: How Women Are Leading the Fight Against Pediatric Cancer
    2025/07/15
    In this inspiring episode of Game Over: c*ncer, Hosts Val and Dana of Cannonball Kids' c*ncer Foundation sit down with Natasha Maio Lonbaken, chair of the Ripple Effect Luncheon. Natasha shares her personal journey from first-time volunteer to nonprofit leader all rooted in one bold decision of saying yes before she felt ready.

    Through honest conversations about leadership, growth, and the power of showing up, this episode explores how one woman found purpose, sisterhood, and tangible impact through CKc’s Ripple Effect event. Learn how this unique event is more than a luncheon — it’s a launchpad for connection, empowerment, and action in the fight against pediatric cancer.

    Get ready to be moved, motivated, and maybe even a little emotional as we talk about:
    • How to lead even when you feel unqualified
    • What it means to be “poured into”
    • Why volunteering changes more than just the cause — it changes you
    • How a glass of wine, a good idea, and a group of women can start a movement

    If you’ve ever wondered what life after cancer really looks like—or how you can be part of advancing pediatric cancer research—this is the episode for you.

    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/
    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/

    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    34 分
  • 30. Inside the Life of a Pediatric Cancer Survivor Turned Research Advocate Jasan Zimmerman

    30. Inside the Life of a Pediatric Cancer Survivor Turned Research Advocate Jasan Zimmerman
    2025/07/01
    In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Game Over c*ncer, we sit down with Jasan Zimmerman—a three-time childhood and young adult cancer survivor, former molecular biologist, and now the Senior Director of Foundation Relations at the Lucile Packard Foundation for Children’s Health.

    Jasan opens up about his lifelong journey through cancer, the mental health struggles that often follow survivorship, and his evolution from patient to patient advocate. With honesty and vulnerability, he shares what it means to process trauma, show up authentically, and build community with purpose. He also highlights the importance of patient-centered research and the critical impact of including survivors’ voices in medical trials and program design.

    Together, we reflect on the groundbreaking research funded through CKc’s partnership with Stanford, including a clinical trial showing full response in children with DIPG. This is why we do what we do.

    If you’ve ever wondered what life after cancer really looks like—or how you can be part of advancing pediatric cancer research—this is the episode for you.

    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/
    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/

    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    39 分
  • 29. Purpose-Driven Work: A CKc Intern Story

    29. Purpose-Driven Work: A CKc Intern Story
    2025/06/17
    In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, hosts Val and Dana of Cannonball Kids' cancer Foundation sit down with standout intern Deborah Bello to explore how the next generation is shaping the future of nonprofit work. Deborah, a University of Central Florida student and CKc’s social media intern, shares her journey into purpose-driven work, from her Nigerian roots and sense of community, to the deep impact of working to fund pediatric cancer research.

    Together, they reflect on the transformational power of internships—not just for students but for organizations. From behind-the-scenes event planning to managing the emotional weight of pediatric cancer stories, Deborah opens up about what she's learned, how her perspective on philanthropy has evolved, and what it means to contribute to a mission that truly matters.

    You will walk away inspired by the role of young professionals in nonprofits, the importance of stewardship and educating for change, and how even the smallest tasks—like folding mailers—can be a catalyst for massive impact.

    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/

    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/


    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    25 分
  • 28. Game Over for pediatric cancer? Federal Funding Cuts & What’s at Stake

    28. Game Over for pediatric cancer? Federal Funding Cuts & What’s at Stake
    2025/06/03
    In this week's episode, Dana and Val unpack the rising concern around potential federal funding cuts and their devastating impact on pediatric cancer research. Drawing from real-time experiences with researchers and families, they discuss the challenges of navigating social media noise, burnout, misinformation, and how research cycles already measured in decades could be further delayed. With only 4% of the national cancer research budget allocated to pediatric cancers, the stakes have never been higher.


    This show calls for more than awareness—it calls for action. Please be encouraged to donate, volunteer, or amplify trusted organizations like CKc to ensure progress doesn't stall in the face of political uncertainty and systemic underfunding.

    Whether you're a donor, advocate, parent, or simply someone who cares, this podcast will equip you with truth, context, and purpose. If you're ready to go beyond the outrage and be part of real change, this is the show for you.

    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/

    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/



    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    28 分
  • 27. Through Violet’s Eyes: A Kid’s Take on Fighting Pediatric cancer

    27. Through Violet’s Eyes: A Kid’s Take on Fighting Pediatric cancer
    2025/05/20
    In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Game Over: c*ncer, we’re joined by a very special tiny guest—Violet Nichols, daughter of CKc Executive Director Dana Nichols, and one of our most enthusiastic members of our Champion Society! Together with co-host Val Solomon, Violet shares what it's like to grow up around a nonprofit that's fighting for a cure—and how even kids can make a difference in the lives of children battling cancer.

    From making bows for the Gold Gala auction baskets to hosting a bake sale with her besties, Violet reminds us that helping doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to come from the heart.

    Please tune in for laughter, inspiration, and a kid’s-eye view on what it means to be part of a ripple effect of hope. Whether you're a parent, volunteer, donor, or advocate, this episode will leave you smiling—and maybe even tearing up.

    Tune in to hear this inspiring and informative conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the fight to make Game Over: c*ncer a reality.

    Connect with Dana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaknichols/

    Connect with Val: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-solomon/



    Upcoming Ckc Events: https://cannonballkidscancer.org/category/make-an-impact/events/

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    Podcast Produced by Hi Hello Labs: Website: https://www.hihellolabs.com/
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    16 分