Welcome back to Navigating Cancer TOGETHER! We’re picking up right where we left off with the remarkable Peta-Ann Wood, a breast cancer thriver and Soulful Coach.

Part 1, "Choosing Flat: Peta-Ann's Journey to Self-Acceptance," was about the courage to choose (flatness, self-advocacy, and leaving people-pleasing behind). Now, Part 2 is the roadmap for flourishing once those massive decisions are made.

Peta-Ann opens up about the powerful shift from managing her life to becoming a Happiness Coach. She reveals how her personal journey, touching on her late AuDHD diagnosis and her life-affirming choice to go flat, gave her a unique lens for helping others find inner peace and contentment.

If you are struggling with the transition after treatment ends, or if you feel like your self-worth took a hit during your diagnosis, this episode is dedicated to you. Peta-Ann shares candid advice and heartwarming success stories that prove recovery isn't just about survival, it's about building a happier life than you had before.

✨Episode Highlights:

• 03:36 Understanding the shift: Why Peta-Ann focused on Happiness Coaching.

• 08:47 How Lived Experience fuels her personal growth and guidance.

• 16:28 Navigating Cancer TOGETHER: A reflection on building genuine community support.

• 26:49 Words of Encouragement: Direct, honest advice for the cancer community.

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript175
Part I: https://podcast.ausha.co/navigatingcancertogether/choosing-flat-peta-ann-s-journey-to-self-acceptance
Connect & Engage with Peta-Ann:

Website: https://www.elegantrebelponders.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elegant.rebel.ponders

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElegantRebel44

Call to Action & Community:

If Peta-Ann's adventure resonated with you, or you know someone else needs to hear this transformative conversation, please share this episode! Text the link to a fellow survivor, patient, or caregiver who could use a dose of guidance and hope today.

Don't miss the next human-centered conversation! Subscribe or follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform to ensure you get immediate alerts for every new episode.

Join the Waitlist: Get ready to connect with a supportive community! Join the waitlist for our Navigating Cancer TOGETHER forum here: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this honest and empowering episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, host Talaya Dendy sits down with the phenomenal Peta-Ann Wood, breast cancer thriver, Soulful Coach, and creator of Elegant Rebel.

This conversation goes beyond the clinical. Peta-Ann openly shares how a late diagnosis of AuDHD (Autism + ADHD) changed her cancer experience, guiding her from people-pleasing straight toward radical self-discovery.

If you've ever felt pressure to make a decision about reconstruction, treatment, or even just how you should feel, this episode is your permission slip. Peta-Ann dives into the emotional process that led her to the definitive and life-changing choice to remain flat after her bilateral mastectomy.

This is a must-listen for anyone in the cancer community who is questioning, redefining, or simply trying to prioritize their own needs and desires amidst the chaos of illness.

✨Episode Highlights:

• 02:21 Peta-Ann's Unique Journey: Navigating cancer alongside a late AuDHD diagnosis.

• 07:40 The Shift: How life after diagnosis became about prioritizing her needs.

• 12:23 Self-Advocacy Unlocked: Learning to trust intuition in a complex medical system.

• 24:48 Beyond the Diagnosis: Understanding Neurodivergence and the End of People-Pleasing.

• 29:40 The Definitive Choice: The transformative conversation about choosing to stay flat.

• 38:35 Writing Her Truth: Insights into her book, What Happens When They Don't Go Back.

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript174

Connect & Engage with Peta-Ann:

Website: https://www.elegantrebelponders.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elegant.rebel.ponders

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElegantRebel44

Resources & Call to Action:

In honor of the movement: October 7th was International Flat Day, a global moment celebrating the beautiful choice of aesthetic flat closure. Learn more and connect: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFLATDay/

Connect with Your Community: Don't navigate this journey alone. Join the waitlist for our "Navigating Cancer TOGETHER" forum and connect with others who truly get it. https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

Subscribe or follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a vital conversation.

Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Zulma Williams: Inspiring Cancer Survivors Through Advocacy and Tenacity

In this inspiring and essential episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, host Talaya Dendy welcomes special guest Zulma Williams, a licensed clinical social worker and inspiring breast cancer survivor.

Zulma shares her compelling personal journey: from immigrating to the U.S. and pursuing higher education later in life, to her personal journey through breast cancer treatment and recovery.This conversation is a vital resource for anyone facing a health challenge, focusing on the critical role of the patient.

In this episode, you will gain crucial insights on:

• Self-Advocacy: Why being an informed and proactive patient is the most important step in your healthcare journey.

• Mental Well-being: Zulma’s expertise on navigating anxiety, depression, and shared trauma during and after treatment.

• The Power of Attitude: Advice on setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining a positive mindset through life-altering challenges.

Zulma's story and clinical experience blend to offer a powerful message of hope, tenacity, and authenticity. Don’t miss her actionable advice on finding your voice and transforming your experience into a source of strength.

✨Episode Highlights:

08:50 Zulma's Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Journey

20:38 KEY TOPIC: The Paramount Importance of Self-Advocacy in Healthcare

30:55 Zulma’s Insights: Addressing Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma in Recovery

36:44 Practical Tips: Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care

38:25The Power of Attitude and Affirmations in Healing

56:35Discussing Cultural Perspectives on Illness and Seeking Therapy

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript173

Connect & Engage with Zulma:

Website & podcast: https://www.dragonflytherapyservices.net

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theswearingtherapist/

Connect with NCT: nctpodcastfan@gmail.com, https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast

Support the new Survivor Series: A mission to uncover the unfiltered reality of survivorship. Learn more here: https://givebutter.com/SurvivorSerieswithTalayaDendy

Navigating Cancer TOGETHER delivers heartfelt stories and expert insights to remind you that you are not alone. Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side. Thank you for your support!

Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, Talaya sits down with Dr. Fazlur Rahman, a retired oncologist with a remarkable 35-year career spent serving communities in San Angelo, Texas. An author and advocate for patient-centered medicine, Dr. Rahman shares his invaluable insights on what's missing in modern healthcare and how we can bring it back.

This is more than a medical conversation; it's a deep exploration of the human side of oncology for anyone navigating cancer, from patients and caregivers to future oncologists. Dr. Rahman shares powerful stories and lessons from a career dedicated to compassionate care.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The Power of Empathy: Why Dr. Rahman believes a compassionate "bedside manner" is as critical as any treatment.

• Rural Health Barriers: Navigating the unique logistical, cultural, and financial challenges of cancer care in underserved areas.

• The Patient's Struggle: An honest discussion on the human and financial toll of a cancer diagnosis.

• Ethical Decisions: Dr. Rahman's perspective on the difficult choices patients and doctors face in modern healthcare.

✨Timestamp Highlights:

04:34 The Importance of Empathy in Medicine

08:05 Dr. Rahman's Books and Writing

11:36 Challenges in Cancer Care

19:23 Barriers in Rural Cancer Care

25:29 Financial and Ethical Struggles

42:57 Advice for Future Oncologists

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript172

Connect & Engage with Dr. Rahman:

Website: https://fazlurrahmanmd.com/

📣Call to Action 1: 💜Share this episode with someone who may benefit from the powerful information that is shared.

Navigating Cancer TOGETHER delivers heartfelt stories and expert insights to remind you that you are not alone. Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

📣Call to Action 2: Support the new Survivor Series: A mission to uncover the unfiltered reality of survivorship. Learn more here: https://givebutter.com/SurvivorSerieswithTalayaDendy

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by our valued listener, Paula Detjent. Thank you, Paula, for your support.

Hosted, Produced, Written, and Edited by: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to another powerful episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, hosted by Talaya Dendy.

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on prostate cancer awareness, the critical issue of health disparities, and the vital importance of open conversations within the Black and African American community. Talaya is joined by a remarkable guest, Christopher Shaddock, a veteran and prostate cancer survivor who shares his powerful personal journey. From his unique experience living in Iceland to his candid discussion about the emotional and physical impacts of his diagnosis, Christopher's story is one of determination, advocacy, and hope.

This episode is a must-listen for men, caregivers, and advocates who want to understand the unique challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis and the power of sharing one's story and creating a domino effect.

✨Highlights from the show:

3:12 Christopher shares his unique experience living in Iceland

9:49 Christopher’s prostate cancer diagnosis story

10:55 The emotional impact of diagnosis and treatment

16:39 Side effects of prostate cancer treatment: what men should know

24:34 Addressing health disparities and barriers for African American men

30:25 The importance of support groups and advocacy

32:23 The “domino effect” of sharing your story and inspiring others

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript171

Resources

The Silent Killer - https://www.silentkillerdoc.com

The Ties That Bind - https://www.bluechildentertainment.com/the-ties-that-bind-crowdfunding

Zero Prostate Cancer - https://zerocancer.org/black-men
Respond Study - https://www.respondstudy.org

💜Share this episode with the men in your life!

Navigating Cancer TOGETHER delivers heartfelt stories and expert insights to remind you that you are not alone. Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

🍵Navigating Cancer TOGETHER is an independent podcast. To keep the episodes coming and support the show, consider buying me a cup of green tea at https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast.

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Laya's Haven Calming Health & Wellness Coaching.
Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever had a health concern that felt minor, but your gut told you to speak up anyway?

In this episode, host Talaya Dendy shares a personal and timely story about the power of trusting your instincts, especially when it comes to your health. Drawing from her experience, she reveals how self-advocacy can be a life-saving tool, and why it's never a "false alarm" to speak up about your concerns.

You'll discover how to:

• Recognize and honor your body’s signals, even when they seem minor.

• Manage anxiety and build confidence in medical settings.

• Take charge of your health by transforming fear and uncertainty into empowered action.

• Turn your medical history into a powerful tool for better care.

Whether you're newly diagnosed, in active treatment, or navigating life after cancer, this episode offers a powerful reminder that your voice matters. Talaya's story will help you feel more confident, informed, and supported on your health journey.

✨Highlights from the show:

08:59 A New Personal Story: My "False Alarm" Journey

12:23 How to Advocate: Collaborating with Your Healthcare Team

15:56 The Surprising Reason for My Pain

17:21 Four Internal Self-Advocacy Strategies

21:35 Closing Thoughts & Upcoming Survivor Series Preview

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript170

Blog: https://www.ontheotherside.life/trusting-your-gut-why-it-s-never-a-false-alarm-in-self-advocacy

Navigating Cancer TOGETHER delivers heartfelt stories and expert insights to remind you that you are not alone. Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

💜Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to trust their gut and advocate for their health!

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Laya's Haven Calming Health & Wellness Coaching.
Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this micro-episode, join Talaya Dendy as she redefines what it means to be calm, especially while navigating the challenges of living with cancer. Talaya shares powerful insights on stress management and the importance of being intentional with your energy and healing. She debunks common misconceptions about being calm and offers advice on how to find peace of mind by focusing on what you can control. Learn how to pause, assess, and make conscious choices about where you invest your energy. Whether you're a cancer survivor, caregiver, or simply looking to manage stress better, this episode provides actionable strategies for maintaining calm in challenging situations.

Engage with Talaya and share your lessons from cancer by following her on Instagram at @cancerdoula_ontheotherside, LinkedIn at Talaya Dendy, and X at @NCTpodcastfan.

✨Highlights from the show:

00:00 Introduction: The Misconceptions of Being Calm

00:38 The Power of Choosing Where You Focus Your Energy

00:52 How to Find Peace of Mind Through Mindfulness

01:27 Lessons on Healing and Resilience from Cancer

02:00 Reflection and Community Engagement

Blog: https://www.ontheotherside.life/the-quiet-strength-finding-calm-amidst-life-s-storms

Talaya is a seasoned cancer thriver who has navigated the many twists and turns of a cancer diagnosis and beyond.

Whether you're a patient seeking encouragement or a caregiver looking for guidance, you'll find tips to help you manage energy, cultivate a sense of calm, and feel less alone. Tune in to find calm and community in the face of adversity.

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript_calm

Follow NCT: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigating-cancer-together

📣Call to Action: 💜If you loved this episode, support the show and tell someone else about it. 🗣️Word of mouth goes a long way! It truly helps more people impacted by cancer find our show.

This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side, your resource for expert cancer guidance and support. Get the support you deserve from someone who has firsthand experience and can help you through your journey. Learn more at https://www.ontheotherside.life.

Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, host Talaya Dendy sits down with Katharine Giovanni, an award-winning author, speaker, and transformation mentor. As a stage three breast cancer survivor, Katharine knows firsthand that everyone tells you to forgive, but no one teaches you how. Katharine shares her journey of survival and demystifies the practice of forgiveness. The conversation explores how to navigate difficult emotions, enhance quality of life, and find peace after a life-altering event like cancer. Listeners will learn how forgiveness can be a powerful tool for healing, self-compassion, and emotional resolution, not just for cancer survivors, but for anyone facing life's toughest challenges.

📣Call to Action 1: Join the waitlist for our "Navigating Cancer TOGETHER" forum here: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

✨Highlights from the show:

02:43 Katharine's Cancer Journey and Intuition

06:48 The Power of Positivity and Mindset in Healing

12:51 A Clear Definition of Forgiveness

15:01 How to Forgive

29:07 The real Impact of Anger and Resentment

32:20 A Guide to Forgiving Yourself

38:52 The Power of the "Pause"

50:30 What "Navigating Cancer Together" means to Katharine

Transcript: bit.ly/podscript169

Connect & Engage with Katharine:

Website: https://katharinegiovanni.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katharinegiovanni/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katharine.giovanni

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinegiovanni/

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Laya's Haven Calming Health & Wellness Coaching.

📣Call to Action 2: Share your thoughts on this episode. https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast

Host: Talaya Dendy

Producer: Talaya Dendy

Executive Producer: Talaya Dendy

Writer: Talaya Dendy

Editor: Talaya Dendy

💜If you loved this episode, please consider leaving us a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It truly helps more survivors find our show.

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.