Let's Talk About Your Breasts

What happens when breast cancer appears with no warning? Jeanne thought it would never happen to her—there was no family history, and heart attacks ran in her family. But a routine mammogram changed everything. After just losing her husband to cancer, Jeanne faced her own diagnosis, navigated treatment, leaned on her support system, and became an advocate for herself and others. She learned the power of early detection. She discovered why being your own advocate matters. She shares what it really looks like to move forward after cancer. Key Questions Answered How was Jeanne’s breast cancer discovered? What type of breast cancer did Jeanne have? What treatments did Jeanne undergo for breast cancer? Did Jeanne experience any major side effects from treatment? How did Jeanne’s recent experience with her husband’s cancer affect her own diagnosis and treatment decisions? Who was Jeanne’s support system during her breast cancer journey? What changes did Jeanne make in her professional life after her diagnosis? Did Jeanne have genetic testing, and was there a family history of breast cancer? What advice does Jeanne give to other women regarding mammograms? What did Jeanne learn about advocating for herself or others in the medical system? How did Jeanne deal with the emotional impact of cancer and loss? How did the pandemic affect breast cancer screenings in her circle? What are some ways friends and family supported Jeanne? How did Jeanne’s outlook and attitude affect her journey through cancer? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Unexpected Health Diagnosis in January 04:20 Missed Mammograms' Consequences 06:27 "Switch to Boutique Agency Benefits" 10:50 Transplant Journey Trauma 13:57 Tamoxifen Facebook Support Groups 16:24 Advocacy in Breast Cancer Community 20:07 A Mess of Illness, 2019-24 24:42 Coping with Loss and Regret 26:28 Staying Positive Amidst Challenges 29:15 Embracing 'No Pony Day Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When public systems like health care, mental health services, and schools begin to disappear, people lose more than access—they can lose hope, and sometimes even their lives. Today, Camerino Salazar shares what he has learned from decades of research into why more Texans are dying from things like suicide, drug overdoses, and alcohol. What does it really mean when entire communities get left behind? Why are some policies leading to higher death rates in certain Texas populations? How does this affect people in rural areas, especially when hospitals close? Key Questions Answered What is killing Texans and what are the leading causes discussed? How do policy decisions affect health outcomes in Texas? What is the role of an evaluator in organizations like The Rose? Who are the populations most affected by rising deaths of despair in Texas? How does legislation regarding healthcare and hospitals impact rural communities? Why would certain communities support policies that might ultimately harm their own health interests? How is life expectancy in Texas trending compared to other states? What myths exist about Texas’ uninsured and Medicaid? How do the restrictions on preventive services and reproductive healthcare impact women’s health in Texas? What can regular people do to address these issues? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Empowering Conversations on Breast Health 05:02 Program Evaluation and Effectiveness 08:43 Texas Mortality Crisis: Suicides, Alcohol, Drugs 12:33 Metzl's State Gun Law Analysis 15:27 Rising Deaths and Limited Government 17:02 Independence vs. Misguided Policy Impact 24:26 "Despair Amid Economic Shifts" 28:07 Life Expectancy Disparities by State 29:33 Texas Women: Rising Maternal Mortality 34:32 Highlighting Misconceptions About Financial Aid 36:24 Complexities of Limited Government Intrusion 39:50 Finding Common Ground Amid Diversity Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Levine left a high profile career as a college football coach. You no doubt remember his time as head coach of the University of Houston's program. But it was time for a change. So he pivoted from coaching football to leading a different kind of team. At Chick-Fil-A.  During this episode, Coach Tony sits down with Dorothy to talk about his career pivot, how leading a football team isn't all that different from operating a restaurant, and what led him to reach out to The Rose. Coach Tony, his family, and Chick-Fil-A team have been ardent supporters of our mission and we're so thankful for all they do. Next time you're in the Missouri City area, give him a visit and see for yourself why so many flock to his Chick-Fil-A franchise.  Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tiffany Tatum is an educator who turned her own experience with The Rose’s mobile mammogram coach into a movement at Alief ISD. She’s helped raise thousands of dollars and connected hundreds of families to breast health services. In this episode, we talk about: How one school district brings breast cancer care to staff and families What happens when girls are given a place to lead and belong Why convenience can be the difference between life and loss Key Questions Answered 1.What is Tiffany Tatum’s role in Alief ISD? 2.How did Tiffany become involved with The Rose and breast cancer awareness? 3. What is the Girls Club in Alief ISD, and what is its purpose? 4. How did the annual breast cancer walk in Alief come about, and what impact has it had? 5. How are funds raised for the breast cancer walk, and approximately how many people participate? 6. What additional activities or features are part of the annual walk? 7. Why is the presence of The Rose’s mobile mammography bus so important for school staff and the wider community? 8. What impact does the Girls Club have on young girls in Alief? 9. What are Tiffany’s hopes for her own children and for the future of the Girls Club initiative? Timestamped Overview 00:00 From Prison Educator to Specialist 05:06 "Connecting Before Correcting in Education" 09:25 Launching District-Wide Girls' SEO Clubs 13:22 Mobile Mammogram Bus Saves Lives 16:28 "Equal Mammogram Outcomes for Uninsured" 17:55 Girls Clubs Empowerment Initiative 23:46 "Streamlined Event for Alief ISD" 25:21 Empowering Girls Through Philanthropy 28:09 Future Goals for My Children Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elaine Turner is known for her handbags and her brand, but what most don’t see is the adversity she has faced, from building her business, to supporting a daughter with special needs, to being there for her parents through illness. She had to make tough decisions about her business, her identity, and her family. In this episode, we talk about: Starting a fashion brand and the reality behind the glamour The challenge of balancing family needs and career dreams Redefining success and self-worth after loss and change Key Questions Answered How did Elaine Turner get started in the fashion industry? What challenges has Elaine faced in her journey as an entrepreneur? How did Elaine manage running a growing business alongside family responsibilities? What prompted Elaine to make the difficult decision to close her retail stores? Did Elaine feel any grief or loss when she closed her stores? How did Elaine redefine success after stepping back from her business? How has the retail landscape changed, and what impact did it have on her business? Did Elaine ever return to running a physical storefront after closing her stores? What advice or insights does Elaine have for women balancing career, family, and authenticity? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Perception vs. Reality in Fashion 06:08 Balancing Business and Family Demands 09:14 Balancing Business and Family Priorities 11:14 Embracing Life's Imperfections 13:51 Embracing Change and Personal Growth 19:19 "Edit: Minimalist Store in Houston" 21:28 Rediscovering Self Beyond Achievements 23:03 Transcendent Worth Beyond Roles Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you respond when a friend faces a diagnosis that changes everything? What does real support look like during breast cancer treatment? In this episode, you’ll hear how friendship, early detection, and self-advocacy made a difference. You’ll also learn about the challenges of treatment, the role of caregivers, and ways communities rally when it’s needed most. Discover what it takes to face fear and make critical decisions. Hear two friends describe finding strength and asking for help. See why early action and support networks can impact recovery. Key Questions Answered How did Anne-Laure discover her breast cancer? How old was Anne-Laure when she was diagnosed with breast cancer? What was Anne-Laure’s experience with her initial diagnosis? How did Anne-Laure finally receive an accurate diagnosis? What type of breast cancer was Anne-Laure diagnosed with? How soon after diagnosis did Anne-Laure begin treatment? Did Ann-Laure use cold caps to try to keep her hair during chemotherapy? What was the role of friends and support in Anne-Laure’s journey? How did Anne-Laure and her husband communicate about her diagnosis and treatment? How did Anne-Laure handle the emotional impact and fear during her breast cancer journey? How did Anne-Laure and Rochelle support each other as friends through the process? What advice does Anne-Laure offer about early detection and self-advocacy? How did the experience change Anne-Laure’s approach to accepting help? How did Anne-Laure process and talk to herself through her treatment? How did Anne-Laure and her community celebrate treatment milestones? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Self-Discovery of Unusual Growth 03:25 Considering a Second Opinion 09:06 "Princess Diana's Influence on Cold Caps" 11:23 Hair Perception and Dry Ice Delivery 15:52 Hospital Freezers: Aiding Neuropathy Treatment 17:00 Finding Humor in Cold Caps 22:59 "Embracing Limits and Early Detection" 24:01 Early Detection Saved My Life 29:25 "Caregiver Struggles and Attention" 32:07 Support Network Eases Transition 35:37 Proactive Help and Support 38:20 Overcoming Fear Through Understanding Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are so many pink ribbons, events, and fundraisers every October, but not everyone sees how it all adds up or where the support goes. Dorothy Gibbons is going to walk us through how Breast Cancer Awareness Month started, how every community event counts, and the real ways that funding stays local. We’ll cover: How awareness grew into access What happens for patients behind the scenes And how even simple fundraisers can mean critical care for women Key Questions Answered How did Breast Cancer Awareness Month originate, and when did it begin? What is the significance of the pink ribbon, and how did it become associated with breast cancer awareness? Were women openly talking about breast cancer in the early days of awareness efforts? Has breast cancer awareness actually increased screening and mammogram rates nationally? What were some key legislative and policy changes that improved access to breast cancer care? What kinds of community fundraising campaigns support The Rose, and how did early campaigns look? How does The Rose use community-raised, unrestricted funds to help patients? What services and programs does The Rose provide to those in need? How can someone get involved in supporting The Rose, even if they don’t own a business or have much money to donate? Can patient stories and experiences make an impact, and how are they shared by The Rose? How significant are Breast Cancer Awareness Month fundraisers to The Rose’s annual operations? What impact has The Rose had on individual lives through these community-supported programs? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Origins of Breast Cancer Awareness 05:24 "Crucial ACR Accreditation in Mammography" 07:58 "Early Breast Cancer Fundraising Initiatives" 12:02 Navigating Breast Cancer Diagnosis Paths 13:49 Breast Cancer Support and Fundraising 18:29 Celebratory Events & Employee Appreciation 19:57 Celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month 23:01 Community of Caring Employees 27:05 Fundraising Support and Coordination Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today is National Podcast Day, and we invited our producer Freddy Cruz to talk about the stories behind Let's Talk About Your Breasts. You’ll hear about how we started, and why telling your story in your own words matters. We'll share moments that have moved us, changed us, and maybe even changed the people listening. And we’ll talk about the power of community support and what it means to be your own advocate. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How did the Let's Talk About Your Breasts get started? 2. Why did Dorothy want to create a podcast about breast health and The Rose? 3. What challenges did Dorothy face in starting the podcast? 4. Why is the podcast format valuable for sharing patient stories? 5. How is fun incorporated as an essential element of the podcast? 6. How has the podcast helped patients and guests share their own stories? 7. What impact do patient interviews have on the hosts? 8. How does the podcast handle difficult or sensitive topics, like breast cancer in young women or during pregnancy? 9. What role does community support play in the success of The Rose and its podcast? 10. Why are podcasts a powerful tool for spreading awareness and encouragement beyond the local community? 11. What advice do the hosts have for others considering starting a podcast? 12. How does the show approach topics of self-advocacy and overcoming barriers in healthcare? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Personal Goal Exploration Insights 04:35 Must Be Fun 07:32 Bear's Emotional Rollercoaster Journey 16:13 Empowerment Through Podcasting 19:10 Podcasting Without Analytic PressureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melissa Greggs, inspired by her mother Dr. Jennie Bennett’s legacy, now serves as acting director of Reconstruction of a Survivor.  Despite facing grief and depression after her mother’s passing, Greggs channels her passion for helping women feel confident through fashion. Her journey blends advocacy, self-discovery, and continuing her mother’s mission. Learn more about Reconstruction of a Survivor here. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. What is Reconstruction of a Survivor and how did it start? 2. Where are the support groups for Reconstruction of a Survivor located? 3. What inspired Dr. Jennie Bennett to create a curriculum for support groups? 4. How did Dr. Jennie Bennett transition from teaching math and science to supporting breast cancer survivors? 5. How did Melissa’s personal life and career change due to her mother’s illness? 6. How does Melissa see fashion as a transformative force for women, especially survivors? 7. How does Melissa cope with grief and depression after her mother’s passing? 8. What lessons did Melissa learn from her mother that guide her as acting director? 9. What challenges and new skills has Melissa faced in taking on the acting directorship of Reconstruction of a Survivor? 10. How do Dorothy and Melissa see the balance between leading with heart and head, especially in the nonprofit world? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Creating Support for Breast Cancer Survivors 05:26 Unique Daughter's Achievements 09:13 Navigating Early Experiences and Identity 10:21 Empowerment Through Personal Style 15:58 Sharing Imperfection and Struggle 18:37 Embracing Leadership Journey 21:30 Empowerment Through Education 26:42 Dressing for Confidence and Comfort 29:57 Authentic Grace and Confidence 30:47 Graceful Fight Against Breast CancerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leah Adams currently serves as Vice President of Engagement at Houston’s Institute for Spirituality and Health. Her path to the Institute began decades ago and her journey is one of resilience and connection—turning grief into a mission to help others heal. Since 1955, the Institute has brought spirituality into healthcare, education, and community programs, offering support groups, professional training, and resources that nurture mind, body, and spirit. In this episode, Dorothy Gibbons and Leah explore the power of compassionate care and belonging in times of need. Learn more about The Institute for Spirituality and Health here. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. What is the Institute for Spirituality and Health, and what is Leah Adams’s role there? 2. How long has the Institute for Spirituality and Health been around, and how did it get started? 3. How did the Institute innovate chaplaincy in healthcare? 4. How did Leah Adams’s personal journey lead her to the Institute? 5. How did Leah process her brother’s tragic death, and how did it influence her spiritual journey? 6. What’s the difference between spirituality and religion, according to the Institute? 7. Why is a spiritual practice or community important, especially in unsettled times? 8. What kinds of support groups and programs does the Institute offer, and who are they for? 9. How does the Institute promote spiritual presence and connection in healthcare education? 10. What are the main centers of excellence within the Institute and what do they focus on? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Journey from Tragedy to Private Equity 03:48 Finding Unity in Global Diversity 09:48 Embracing Spirituality at Work 11:21 Spiritual Community for Resilience 15:23 Promoting Spirituality in Medicine 16:51 The Power of Presence 21:33 Community and Belonging in Houston 24:40 End-of-Life Care and Support 29:21 Connecting Through Mission-Driven Leadership 31:18 Weekly Support & Wellness GroupsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Becca Johnson shares the sequence of events that led to her breast cancer diagnosis and what happened next.  Initial mammograms and consultations showed no clear issues, but persistent symptoms led Becca to push for further testing. When the diagnosis came, she documented every detail and sought support from medical staff and loved ones.  Becca describes communicating with her children and organizing her next steps. Faith guided her choices as she incorporated both conventional treatment and alternative approaches. Community support, including fundraising through T-shirt sales featuring meaningful Bible verses, helped cover medical expenses. Becca stresses the importance of research, questioning, and finding a supportive network.  Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How did Becca Johnson first discover she had breast cancer? 2. What was Becca’s initial reaction upon receiving her cancer diagnosis? 3. How did Becca approach telling her children about her diagnosis? 4. What did Becca do after learning about her diagnosis? 5. What specific type of breast cancer was Becca diagnosed with? 6. Did Becca have any known familial risk factors for breast cancer? 7. How did Becca’s faith influence her journey with breast cancer? 8. What role did Becca’s support network play during her diagnosis and treatment? 9. What advice does Becca share for others who receive a cancer diagnosis? 10. What does Becca recommend to those struggling with feelings of isolation after a cancer diagnosis? 11. How did Becca personalize her healing journey (e.g., alternative treatments, lifestyle changes)? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Mammogram Misdiagnosis: Lingering Concerns 06:15 Urgent Call to Doctor 06:52 Seeking Guidance and Self-Discipline 12:11 A Life-Altering Diagnosis 16:04 Urgent Lumpectomy Needed 17:30 Surgery Decision Urgency 21:26 Exodus 14 Revelation 26:10 Spiritual Awakening at 25 27:10 Turning Point: A New Path 31:25 Unique Responses to Cancer TreatmentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

¿Qué pasa después del diagnóstico? Elizabeth nos cuenta cómo su rol de navegadora de pacientes cambia vidas, brindando no solo recursos médicos, sino también esperanza, comunidad y contención emocional. Desde el diagnóstico hasta la recuperación, ella se convierte en guía, consejera y ángel para quienes enfrentan una de las luchas más difíciles de su vida.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Quianta Moore grew up in Pennsylvania, moved to Texas, and then found her path through medicine, law, and policy. She now leads the Hackett Center for Mental Health where she’s focused on access to care, early brain development, and what happens to women during times like menopause or postpartum. We’ll learn what shaped her career and why she took risks to tackle gaps in women’s health. We’ll talk about mental health challenges uniquely impacting women, from isolation to the cost and coverage of care. We’ll hear how common sense can make a difference while we wait for research. Learn more about The Hackett Center for Mental Health here. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. What is Dr. Quianta Moore’s background and journey into medicine and public health? 2. How did Dr. Moore become interested in women’s health? 3. Why did Dr. Moore pursue both medical and legal training, and how did that shape her career? 4. What is the Hackett Center for Mental Health, and what does Dr. Moore do there? 5. How did Hurricane Harvey affect health outcomes in Houston? 6. What is the relationship between mental health and physical health in women, especially around menopause? 7. What disparities do women face in healthcare coverage and costs? 8. What challenges exist for women seeking menopause-related care? 9. How does social connectedness impact mental health, and are there examples from Houston communities? 10. How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect mental health, especially for children and adolescents? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Choosing Medicine: A Journey 04:08 Hackett Center for Mental Health Leadership 06:57 Immediate Action over Waiting for Research 12:19 Ophthalmology Fellowship Success Story 15:10 Focus: Early Brain Development Impact 18:34 Women: Disproportionate Health Care Burdens 22:20 Addressing Menopause in the Workplace 24:35 Community Resource Platform Development 28:12 Parental Isolation and Social Connection 31:19 Early Brain Development and COVID ImpactSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No, Mammograms are Not a “One and Done” Procedure Crowd favorite Dr. Raz joins Dorothy to shed light on the importance of mammograms in detecting breast cancer early. He gets granular by explaining what a mammogram is and why it’s important to have one every year. Changing guidelines have left many women confused over the year, and Dr. Raz’s insights clear the air. He emphasizes the need for consistency and punctuality in mammogram screenings to catch cancer early and improve survivability. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1.) What’s a mammogram? 2.) Why should women get them done early? 3.) What are the different kinds of mammograms? 4.) How have changing guidelines had an impact on women’s health? 5.) Why is it important to get screened every year? Timestamped Overview 00:00 What is a mammogram? 01:23 Importance of annual mammograms 04:01 Role of USPSTF in setting guidelines 04:58 Impact of changing guidelines on insurance coverage 05:24 Difference between screening and diagnostic mammograms 08:10 What women need to know about mammogramsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meredith Hilliard, armed with the knowledge of her BRCA gene and her family's history, decided to have a robotic prophylactic mastectomy to avert the disease that haunted her relatives.  Supported by her community and inspired by her mother’s experience, she became one of the first in Texas to try this innovative procedure. Her story is one of preparation, courage, and hope for a cancer-free future. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. Who is Meredith Hilliard, and what makes her story unique? 2. How did Meredith learn about breast cancer at a young age? 3. What is the BRCA gene, and how did Meredith’s family discover they were carriers? 4. How did having a family history and the BRCA gene influence Meredith’s decisions about her health? 5. What is a prophylactic mastectomy and why did Meredith choose to have one? 6. How did Meredith feel during the regular surveillance (MRI and mammograms) before surgery? 7. What support did Meredith have during her decision and surgery? 8. What is a robotic mastectomy, and how did Meredith become a candidate for this procedure? 9. What was Meredith’s experience with reconstruction following her mastectomy? 10. How does Meredith feel about her decision in hindsight? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Secret Struggles with Cancer 04:23 Early Diagnosis Key to Discovery 08:03 BRCA Gene and Cancer Anxiety 11:23 Robotic Mastectomy Experience 15:02 Family Health and Surgery Discussion 18:26 Referral to MD AndersonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lolita Guarin doesn’t call herself a stress management expert because she's studied it. She calls herself one because she's lived it.  We talk about: the patterns we carry from childhood and how they shape our reactions, the signals our bodies send when we've reached a limit, and how self-compassion starts with a single decision to pause and notice. Hear how Lolita turned her own story into a message for others. Subscribe to Lolita’s YouTube channel here. Learn more about Lolita’s C.A.L.M. method here. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How did Lolita Guarin become a stress management expert? 2. How does Lolita define stress, and how is it connected to trauma? 3. Can childhood patterns impact how we experience stress as adults? 4. Do we carry childhood stress patterns with us forever? 5. How did Lolita’s realization about her childhood shape her stress management journey? 6. What led to Lolita's personal health crisis, and how did it relate to stress? 7. How did she begin to recover from chronic stress and burnout? 8. What does Lolita see as the limitations of typical stress management practices like yoga or meditation? 9. What is one practical self-love technique Lolita uses and recommends? 10. How does Lolita approach helping clients start on their journey to reducing stress? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Childhood Experience and Emotional Triggers 04:18 Empowerment: Beyond Childhood Limitations 07:00 Relentless Work Leads to Burnout 11:08 Path to Becoming a Wellness Coach 14:50 Managing Stress Without Self-Judgment 17:40 Self-Reflection and Inner Critique 21:40 Empathy in Parental Advice 26:34 Childhood Patterns Fuel High Achievers 29:23 Tradition, Fear, and Loyalty Cycle 31:10 Prioritize Self-Care for Loved OnesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you create a network where women feel safe to share their stories and support one another? Amber Jamshed started the Houston Professional Women Organization to answer that question. She builds platforms for women—so they can connect, mentor each other, and grow.  In this episode, we’ll explore: The challenges and opportunities as a first-generation immigrant How to break barriers and change the narrative around women supporting women Why health and self-care need to be priorities for every woman Listen in as Amber shares why community, advocacy, and leadership matter.  Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. Who is Amber Jamshed, and what inspired her work in women’s empowerment? 2. What is the Houston Professional Women Organization, and why was it started? 3. How does the organization help women grow professionally and personally? 4. What challenges do women face when it comes to seeking support and resources? 5. How did the organization adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic? 6. What changes has Amber seen in women’s attitudes toward supporting each other? 7. What are some of the cultural barriers that affect women’s health, especially regarding breast health? 8. How important is sharing personal stories for spreading awareness and empowering others? 9. What role do spouses or male family members play in encouraging women’s health decisions in some communities? 10. How does Amber personally prioritize her own health and self-care? Timestamped Overview 04:54 Empowering Women Through Networking 09:04 Empowering Immigrant Women Voices 12:37 Connecting Health and Awareness 14:47 Breast Cancer's Emotional Impact 17:55 Empathy Through Actions 22:54 Multicultural Center Programs Overview 24:56 New BeginningsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does a young boy’s traumatic introduction to cancer shape his lifelong journey? Kirk Cox's early encounters with his mother's breast cancer in the 60s profoundly affected him. Watching her bravery through invasive surgeries and treatments left an indelible mark. This personal history guided him as he later managed his Aunt Dottie's care and faced the tragic loss of his own child. Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How was Kirk Cox first introduced to breast cancer? 2. What were the treatments and experiences of his mother with breast cancer in the 1960s? 3. How did Kirk's mother manage her illness while raising children? 4. What was the difference in cancer treatment between the 1960s and 1970s as experienced by Kirk's mother? 5. Did Kirk worry about losing his mother to cancer as a child? 6. What responsibility did Kirk take on after his mother’s passing? 7. How did the treatment for his Aunt Dottie's breast cancer differ from his mother's? 8. How has Kirk experienced and dealt with grief throughout his life? 9. What impact did the loss of Kirk's son have on him? 10. What advice does Kirk offer to those dealing with grief or supporting someone in grief? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Mother's breast cancer diagnosed later, treatment different. 04:45 Aunt misdiagnosed; family care responsibilities transferred. 09:05 Two friends drowned in lake after storm. 09:55 Received devastating news, started grieving child's loss. 13:53 Dealing with grief consistently prevents anxiety. 17:49 Grief resurfaces unpredictably; embrace it for healing. 21:59 It's okay to ask for help grieving. 25:39 Support network is vital for difficult conversations. 26:26 Impressed supporter of cancer care and technologies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do you have to answer so many questions before a mammogram? What happens if you forget part of your medical history when making an appointment? And what do you need to know as a first-time patient or if you don’t have insurance?  Today, The Rose Galleria's Center Manager Araceli Salazar joins the show to talk about how you can make your visit easier, and how the answers you give to our list of questions may even save your life.  Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. Why do I have to answer so many questions when making a mammogram appointment? 2. What are the main types of mammogram appointments? 3. Do I need to fast or avoid food before a mammogram? 4. Are there any preparation tips for mammogram day? 5. Why are previous mammogram films important? 6. What should uninsured patients do to prepare for their mammogram? 7. Do men ever get mammograms, and how are male patients accommodated? 8. When do you need a doctor’s order or authorization for a mammogram? 9. What happens if additional testing is needed after a screening mammogram? 10. Why is it so important to share your full medical history and symptoms during scheduling? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Mammogram Appointment: Questions Matter 05:31 Patient Exam Preparation Guidelines 07:35 Reassuring Experience of a Medical Exam 10:54 Patient Qualification and Walk-in Screenings 15:56 Streamlining Medical Referrals 17:49 Avoiding Appointment Delays 20:34 Diverse, Relatable, Multilingual CareSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What leads someone to join a nonprofit board when they don’t have a personal connection to the cause?  For Tina Saenz, it was a Board Fellows program.  She gained a new perspective on women’s health through work with the Rose. Being from a rural area, Tina also saw firsthand the challenges women face getting care. Today, I serve as both a board member and a patient. Learn how volunteering expanded her understanding of healthcare access Hear why company support matters for nonprofit involvement Understand why insured women coming to The Rose makes a difference Support The Rose HERE. Subscribe to Let’s Talk About Your Breasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts. Key Questions Answered 1. How did Tina Saenz first become involved with The Rose? 2. Why did Tina initially hesitate to join The Rose’s board after the fellowship ended, and what changed her mind? 3. How did Tina’s therapist have a personal connection to The Rose? 4. How does Tina relate to The Rose’s mission from her own life experience? 5. What challenges did Tina’s family face with rural healthcare? 6. What led Tina to pursue a career in engineering, specifically chemical engineering? 7. What is the gender representation like in the engineering field Tina works in? 8. How does Tina’s employer, Novus International, support employee community engagement? 9. What surprised Tina about joining The Rose’s board from an operations perspective? 10. What was Tina’s personal experience like getting her first mammogram at The Rose? Timestamped Overview 00:00 Rejoining the Rose Board 05:59 Rural Health Care Challenges 06:47 Hospitalization and Surgery Scheduling 11:36 Novus International: Holistic Employee Support 13:53 Streamlining Operations for Women 19:14 Effortless and Professional Appointments 22:43 Mammogram Referrals and Health Checks 24:22 Encouraging Women's Health Self-Checks 27:00 Gratitude for Support and ServiceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.