In this Season One finale, host Talaya Dendy celebrates the milestone of completing The Healing Pen and a Mic Companion podcast. Reflecting on the live October workshop, Talaya shares why she has decided to keep her signature 5-hour "deep dive" format and how journaling serves as a vital tool for movement, not just reflection. This episode features moving testimonials from participants and a first look at the evolving future of the program for 2026 .

Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:

• Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!

• Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community.

For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com.

💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible!

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Power of the 5-Hour Intensive: Why meaningful conversations can’t be rushed and why this format led to major breakthroughs.

• Movement as Medicine: Using journaling as a spark for action to reach your optimal, healed self.

• A Safe Space for Vulnerability: How emotional and physical safety allowed participants to form lifelong bonds in just five hours.

✨Episode Highlights:

00:04:20 Journaling as a Tool for Action & Movement

00:05:41 Moving Participant Testimonials

00:06:41 The Future of the Healing Pen and a Mic

Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen5

Ways to Support & Connect:

• Support the Mission: Donate to the Survivor Series here

• Join the 2026 Priority List: Sign up for the 'On the Other Side' Newsletter

• Work With Me: Visit my website for Cancer Doula Services
  

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

In this episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, host Talaya Dendy welcomes back award-winning journalist, poet, and two-time cancer survivor Annamaria Scaccia. Annamaria shares her powerful story of surviving both kidney and thyroid cancer by age 40 and how she is transforming her life through bodybuilding and advocacy. They discuss the psychological power of strength training, the challenges of managing rare cancer types, how cancer impacts relationships, and the importance of self-awareness in the healing process. Tune in to discover how physical discipline, raw truth, and giving yourself grace can help you reclaim your power and navigate the complex emotional landscape of long-term survivorship.

✨Episode Highlights:

00:02:32 Annamaria’s Origin Story

00:05:39 Transitioning from Kickboxing to Bodybuilding after a Kidney Cancer Diagnosis

00:09:18 Bodybuilding for Healing and Trauma Recovery

00:17:45 Self-Awareness and the Truth of the Iron

00:20:50 Navigating a Second Cancer Diagnosis

00:27:41 Addressing Multiple Primary Cancers

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript178

Connect & Engage with Annamaria:

Links: https://linktr.ee/gotchascaccia?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotchascaccia/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annamariascaccia/
Podcast: https://www.kidneycancer.org/podcast/

Join the Community: Looking for a safe space to share your raw truth? Join the waitlist for the Navigating Cancer TOGETHER Cancer Community Forum. Connect with others in a private, supportive environment completely free from the noise and distractions of social media. Be the first to know when we open: https://www.ontheotherside.life/forum-waitlist

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side. Thank you for your support! It helps to bring these critical conversations to life.

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

In this powerful episode of the Healing Pen and a Mic companion podcast, host Talaya Dendy sits down with Lisa Beckendorf, a celebrated cancer survivor and patient advocate.

Lisa shares her personal journey through multiple cancer diagnoses and the pivotal moment she transitioned from a career in commercial real estate to full-time advocacy. Initially asking, "Why me?", she realized her experience was a powerful way to give back to the cancer community.

This conversation dives into the transformative impact of journaling and storytelling in the healing process. Lisa highlights how the practice, central to the Healing Pen and a Mic Workshop offers emotional release, fosters deep community connections, and is a critical tool for personal growth.

Whether you are navigating a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or seeking to turn your personal story into powerful action, this episode offers invaluable insights on finding solace, strength, and purpose through writing and community.

Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:

• Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!

• Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community.

For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com.

💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible!

✨Episode Highlights:

01:44 Lisa's Cancer Journey: From Diagnosis to Advocacy

04:49 The Healing Power of Journaling and Storytelling

09:15 Observations and Impact from the Healing Pen Workshop

12:21 Advice for Cancer Patients, Survivors, and Caregivers

15:07 Lisa's Role in Advocacy and Research (ECOG-ACRIN, MNCCTN)

Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen4

Subscribe to our newsletter at https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing 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 on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this powerful and heart-centered episode, Talaya Dendy welcomes Jennifer Schultz, a four-time melanoma survivor, university professor of public speaking, and passionate advocate.

Recorded live during The Healing Pen and a Mic Journaling Workshop at the Mali Center in St. Paul, Jenn shares the intimate reality of her 10-year battle with recurrent cancer and her journey into survivorship. Drawing from her personal experience and professional expertise, Jenn offers hope, discussing how she found safety, community, and solace not only through support groups but also by harnessing the transformative impact of journaling.

Tune in for Jenn's inspiring story and her dedication to educating and empowering cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. This episode is filled with invaluable life lessons and a strong sense of community.

Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:

• Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!

• Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community.

For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com.

💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible!

✨Episode Highlights:

01:13 Recurrent Melanoma: Jenn’s 10-Year Journey and Diagnosis

04:15 Solace: Support, Community & Healing

07:16 Journaling: Transformative Writing Impact

08:53 Bravely Becoming: Insights into Jenn’s Book and Upcoming Project

10:35 Community Connection: Impact of the Workshop and Final Thoughts

Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen_3

Connect & Engage with Jenn:

Website: https://jennpatrice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenn_patrice/ https://www.instagram.com/thenextchapterwithjenn/

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

Book: Bravely Becoming: Overcoming Grief and Loss to Find Yourself Again, https://a.co/d/dTLjuwR

Subscribe to our newsletter at https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing 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 on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Join host Talaya Dendy on Navigating Cancer TOGETHER for another inspiring conversation with the truly remarkable Wenora Johnson.

Wenora is a three-time cancer survivor (colorectal, endometrial, and basal cell carcinoma) and a passionate patient and research advocate. In this episode, she shares her incredible, decades-long journey and how her background in the Navy instilled the grit and discipline she needed to face these health challenges.

What You'll Learn:

• Lynch Syndrome & Genetic Testing: Wenora discusses the pivotal role that genetic testing and the discovery of Lynch syndrome played in her early detection and survival. This segment is a must-listen for anyone considering testing.

• The Power of Policy Change: Hear about Wenora's dedicated work in patient advocacy, including her efforts to push for policy changes that would lower the recommended age for initial colonoscopies.

• Self-Advocacy & Resilience: Get real-world advice on how to stand up for yourself in the healthcare system and how Wenora harnessed her inner resilience to overcome multiple diagnoses.

• Caregiving Insights: The conversation touches on the often-overlooked challenges and realities faced by caregivers.

Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or simply looking for a story of extraordinary determination, Wenora's insights and message of hope are invaluable. Don't miss this episode!

✨Episode Highlights:

02:12 Meet Wenora Johnson: A Three-Time Survivor

06:22 The Impact of Lynch Syndrome on Her Journey

10:08 Why Genetic Testing Is So Important

16:04 Fighting for Change: Advocacy and Policy

33:00 Understanding Caregiving Challenges

36:19 Tips for Self-Advocacy and Building Resilience

43:19 Wenora's Final Thoughts and Resources (FORCE)

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript177

Resource: FORCE, https://www.facingourrisk.org/about-us

Inspired by Wenora's resilience? Start your journey with calm. Download your FREE Guided Meditation: "Calming Your Mind After a Cancer Diagnosis." Get inner peace now! https://www.ontheotherside.life/guidedmeditation

🔺Let us know what you think about this episode on our private Fanlist page. https://fanlist.com/nctpodcast

If Wenora's story and tips resonated with you, or you know someone else who needs to hear this important conversation, please share this episode! Your share can make a huge difference!💜

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by On the Other Side. Thank you for your support! It helps to bring these critical conversations to life.

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

Welcome back to The Healing Pen and a Mic Companion Podcast! In the second episode, Talaya Dendy sits down with Donya Dawson, a courageous cancer survivor, proud member of the Rondo community, and dedicated public servant with the State of Minnesota.

Live from the Mali Center in St. Paul, Donya shares her transformative journey of healing and empowerment following her breast cancer diagnosis. Donya discusses how her experience ignited a belief in creating spaces for connection, healing, and encouragement, a value deeply embedded in her work.

Tune in to hear Donya's inspiring story, learn the benefits of journaling for emotional healing, and discover the importance of support systems and resources for those navigating their own health challenges. Her work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their next level of leadership, and she embodies the value of paying it forward. whether by making connections, offering help, or asking for support because true strength is built in community.

Whether you're on a healing journey or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, inspiration, and tips on harnessing the power of words for well-being.

Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:

• Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!

• Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these much-needed, workshops to the cancer community.

For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com.

💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible!

✨Episode Highlights:

• 01:10 Donya's Journey: From Diagnosis to Empowerment

• 02:59 Navigating Treatment: Trials, Triumphs, and Turning Points

• 06:41 The Healing Pen: How Journaling Fueled Her Recovery

• 09:26 Building Bridges: Advice for Overcoming Isolation & Finding Support

Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen2

Connect & Engage with Donya:

Website: https://healingrootsacc.com

Upcoming Event on 2/7/2026: https://healingrootsacc.com/upcoming-events

Subscribe to our newsletter at https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing 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 on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to the Healing Pen and a Mic Companion Podcast! In this powerful introductory episode, join Talaya Dendy, a 14-year cancer thriver, cancer doula, and compassionate facilitator, as she unveils the vision behind The Healing Pen and a Mic.

Discover the transformative power of combining journaling and storytelling (through podcasting) as a path to healing within the cancer community. Talaya sets the stage for her unique Journaling & Podcast Workshop, emphasizing the importance of emotional exploration, giving voice to your story, and finding authentic connection when navigating the uncertainties of a cancer journey, including survivorship post-treatment.

This episode offers a glimpse into the workshop's impact, inviting you into the welcoming, supportive space at The Mali Center in St. Paul, MN. You'll gain insights into how this initiative helps foster emotional comfort, spiritual peace, and resilience, drawing inspiration from the brave voices of cancer survivors, patients, and caregivers.

Support Our Mission / Partner With Us:

• Bring Healing to Your Community: Interested in hosting The Healing Pen and a Mic workshop in your city or organization? We'd love to partner with you!

• Sponsor Future Workshops: Help us continue offering these vital, free workshops to the cancer community.

For partnership or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at nctpodcastfan@gmail.com.

💜Thank you to the St. Paul chapter of the Awesome Foundation for sponsoring this episode and the Healing Pen and a Mic workshop. Your support makes this life-changing work possible!

✨Episode Highlights:

01:01 Workshop Unveiled: What to Expect from Our Unique Experience

03:03 Our Home Away From Home: A Welcoming Space at The Mali Center, St. Paul

04:29 Beyond Words: The Transformative Power of Journaling & Storytelling

11:13 What's Next? Glimpse into Upcoming Episodes & Final Thoughts

Transcript: https://bit.ly/healingpen1

Connect & Engage with Talaya:

Website: https://www.ontheotherside.life

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancerdoula_ontheotherside/
Email: nctpodcastfan@gmail.com

Newsletter: https://bit.ly/nctnewsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow Navigating Cancer TOGETHER on your favorite podcast app or platform so you never miss a life-changing 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.

In this essential and empathetic episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, host Talaya Dendy welcomes Amy Chastain, a seasoned caregiver and Registered Nurse, author, and tireless caregiver advocate. Amy shares wisdom from decades of experience, navigating the complexities of caregiving not only in her professional life but also through personal challenges.

We dive deep into "the invisible job" that so many undertake: the role that is often exhausting, unacknowledged, and challenging to both the mind and the spirit.

Why You Need to Listen:

This conversation is a lifeline for caregivers, family members, and anyone who wants to know how to truly support someone through illness. You will gain:

• Validation: A powerful discussion on the intense emotional, spiritual, and personal grief that comes with being a caregiver.

• Wisdom: Honest advice on why asking for help is essential, and how to prepare for future caregiving roles.

• Empowerment: Strategies for holding onto yourself, your fun, and your identitywhen the demands of caregiving threaten to erase them.

• Advocacy: Insights on how to erase the stigma surrounding illness and caregiving so that everyone feels seen and supported.

✨Episode Highlights:

06:58 The Emotional Journey of Caregiving: Understanding the Invisible Burden

10:15 The Importance of Asking for Help (And How to Actually Do It)

12:53 Understanding Grief from Multiple Perspectives (The patient's, the caregiver's, the family's)

20:31 Spiritual Challenges in Caregiving

27:06 The Invisible Caregiver: The risk of losing yourself vs. Holding Onto Yourself (28:13)

35:57 Advice on Preparing for Future Caregiving Roles

43:36 Erasing the Stigma Around Caregiving and Illness

Transcript: https://bit.ly/podscript176

Connect & Engage with Amy:

Website: https://amychastain.com

Book: https://a.co/d/btOgK9v

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

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

Let us know what you think about this episode. Send an email to nctpodcastfan@gmail.com

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

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