The Cancer Project
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© Oklahoma Proton Center
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Stay informed and empowered as we explore the intersection of technology and medicine. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions, expert interviews, and practical advice to help you or your loved ones on the journey through cancer treatment and recovery.
26 Episodes
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David Raubach sits down with Jillian Plochocki, Executive Director of the Proton Collaborative Group. Jillian explains how the world’s largest proton therapy registry was built and why real-world data from more than 40,000 patients is critical to improving cancer treatment outcomes.The conversation explores the difference between registries and clinical trials, how proton centers across the United States collaborate on research, and why long-term follow-up matters when evaluating radiation therapy.
The discussion covers the history of the Oklahoma Proton Center from opening in 2009 as one of the first proton centers in the country, to treating more than 6,000 patients from all 50 states and multiple countries. You will learn what proton therapy is, how it works, and why its ability to stop radiation directly inside the tumor allows doctors to reduce exposure to healthy tissue and critical organs. The conversation also covers what patients can expect when contacting the Oklahoma Proton Center, from consultation through treatment planning, timelines, insurance considerations, and long-term follow-up. Real-world examples are used to explain how proton therapy can reduce side effects and help preserve quality of life during and after treatment.
David Raubach and Birtney Haynes break down how cancer screening really works and the real world consequences of delaying treatment. The conversation explores the risks and benefits of different screening tools, including PET CT, MRI, and blood-based biomarkers. Explaining why no single test can detect every cancer. Using well-known cases like Steve Jobs, Joe Biden, Ron Rivera, and Princess Kate, the episode highlights how timing, evidence-based care, and informed decisions can dramatically impact outcomes.The discussion examines why Steve Jobs delayed surgery for pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer and how that decision changed the course of his disease. It also explains Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis and how stopping routine screening allowed the cancer to progress before detection. The episode clarifies why proton therapy can reduce radiation exposure, especially for pediatric and head and neck patients, and why treatment decisions often feel overwhelming when patients are faced with many options.
This episode of The Cancer Project features a detailed conversation with Dr. John Chang and David Raubach on newly published clinical trial data comparing proton therapy and traditional photon radiation for head and neck cancers. The discussion breaks down what head and neck and oropharyngeal cancers are, why treatment in this area is especially complex and how different radiation technologies affect both outcomes and quality of life.The article referenced in this podcast:Proton versus photon radiotherapy for patients with oropharyngeal cancer in the USA: a multicentre, randomised, open-label, non-inferiority phase 3 trialFrank, Steven JBates, James et al.The Lancet, Volume 0, Issue 0https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)01962-2/abstract
In this episode of The Cancer Project podcast, host David Raubach talks with Mike Beckham, co-founder and CEO of Simple Modern. Mike shares his journey from ministry to entrepreneurship, how he built one of the fastest-growing drink-ware brands in the country, and why generosity is the centerpiece of both his life and business. Hear the story behind Simple Modern’s giveaway of 50,000 mugs to cancer patients, how Mike plans to give away most of his net worth, and what it takes to protect company culture while scaling. This conversation will inspire leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone who believes business can be a force for good.
In this episode of The Cancer Project, host David Raubach sits down with Stacy and Earle Haggard to discuss their family’s incredible journey. Stacy’s book, ‘French Kissing Cancer,’ shares the heartbreaking story of losing her sister to cancer, the emotional aftermath, and the faith that sustained them. Together, they reveal how tragedy transformed into triumph through love, faith, and family. Subscribe to hear more inspiring stories of hope and healing.
In this episode of The Cancer Project, host David Raubach sits down with Stephen Towe, CEO and Co-Founder of LEO Cancer Care, to discuss how upright patient positioning is reshaping the future of radiation and proton therapy. Stephen shares his journey from medical physicist to entrepreneur, the challenges of bringing innovation to market, and how compassion drives true progress in healthcare.Watch to learn how LEO Cancer Care’s groundbreaking approach could make proton therapy more accessible worldwide and more humane for every patient.Learn more about LEO Cancer Care: https://www.leocancercare.com
Join host David Raubach and Mevion CEO Tina Yu as they discuss leadership, innovation, and the global future of proton therapy. Learn how Mevion’s FIT system makes advanced cancer care more accessible. Tune in to The Cancer Project Podcast for insight into the science, technology, and humanity behind cancer treatment breakthroughs.
Jennifer explains the mission of the National Association for Proton Therapy to ensure that every patient has informed access to proton therapy through advocacy, education, and research. The conversation covers insurance barriers, cost-effectiveness, workforce realities, research priorities and the shift from skepticism to pride among policymakers and communities.The National Association for Proton Therapyhttps://proton-therapy.org
In this powerful episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, Dr. David Sandberg, pediatric neurosurgeon and author of 'Brain and Heart,' shares an intimate look into the emotional, ethical, and human dimensions of medicine. He reflects on life in the operating room, the heartbreak and hope of treating children with brain tumors, and the lessons learned from decades of healing. Listen as Dr. Sandberg discusses compassion, humility, and what it truly means to balance the mind and the heart.Book Referenced in this Episode: “Brain and Heart: The Triumphs and Struggles of a Pediatric Neurosurgeon” by David I. SandbergIn this book, Dr. David Sandberg combines his deep scientific and medical knowledge with raw emotion and unforgettably powerful stories of courage and love.Get your copy: https://bit.ly/49Qb2SV
Dr. Steven J. Frank, Executive Director, Particle Therapy Institute, MD Anderson Cancer Center. The discussion centers on the TORPEDO trial and the broader implications of proton therapy in cancer treatment. Dr. Frank explains the advancements in precision radiation, long-term patient outcomes, and cost-effectiveness studies demonstrating how proton therapy can reduce toxicity, improve survival, and lower long-term healthcare costs.
Ben shares his personal journey from being a patient with a rare blood disorder as a child to becoming a healthcare administrator and advocate for better cancer care access. He discusses his training at MD Anderson, his work in proton therapy centers, and his entrepreneurial path creating Apollo and Unity to tackle insurance prior authorization challenges in oncology. Together, they explore the complexities of insurance approvals, the role of AI in healthcare, and the future of proton therapy and oncology treatment
In this episode of The Cancer Project, Sharon Followill shares her deeply personal journey through the world of oncology care from losing her mother at a young age to guiding countless patients, and recently supporting her daughter through breast cancer treatment. Learn how empathy, education, and persistence shape patient outcomes.
In this powerful episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, State Representative Melissa Provenzano shares her personal journey with breast cancer and the fight to pass Oklahoma House Bill 1389. From her mother’s two diagnoses to her own battle, Melissa opens up about the challenges of treatment, the importance of early detection, and the bipartisan effort that led to overriding a governor’s veto. This episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by cancer, health policy, or the fight for accessible healthcare. Bill Mentioned in the Video: House Bill 1389 https://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1389&Session=2500
In this powerful and deeply moving episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, David Raubach sits down with Sarah McLean – a two-time breast cancer survivor and the Executive Director of Project31. She discusses the founding of Project31, an Oklahoma-based nonprofit providing peer support,care packages, and resources to women and families impacted by breast cancer. From the importance of advocacy and community, to her work on legislative change for metastatic patients, Sarah's story is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering dedication to others walking a similar path.
In this inspiring episode of The Cancer Project Podcast, Michelle Raney shares her extraordinary journey of resilience, hope, and healing. Diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer at just 25 years old — and later facing recurrence with stage four metastatic disease Michelle opens up about the physical, mental, and spiritual battles she fought along the way. Joined by host David Raubach and co-host Heather Jacobson, Michelle discusses the importance of being your own advocate, integrating traditional and holistic treatments, protecting your mindset, and believing in miracles. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and refusing to let cancer define your life.
In this powerful episode of The Cancer Project, Olympic gold medalist Shannon Miller shares her personal journey with ovarian cancer. She opens up about the shock of her diagnosis, the grueling challenges of chemotherapy, and the importance of mental strength, faith, and community support.Shannon draws parallels between her competitive mindset as an athlete and her determination to endure treatment, ultimately finding strength in asking for help. Her story emphasizes awareness, early detection, survivorship, and the holistic approach to healing—mind, body, and spirit.
In this episode, reality TV star and Oklahoma Proton Center marketing team member Britney Haynes shares her journey as the mother of a pediatric cancer survivor with David Raubach, Chief Development Officer for Oklahoma Proton Center and Heather Jacobson, VP of Marketing for Oklahoma Proton Center and Executive Producer on the Cancer Project Podcast. Britney Haynes reflects on her time on Big Brother, Amazing Race, and Traitors, while also diving deep into her advocacy for proton therapy and the realities of pediatric cancer. This conversation combines professional insight, heartfelt storytelling, and personal resilience.
David Raubach sits down with his partners Tom Welch and Chris Brown to share the untold story of how they took the Oklahoma Proton Center out of bankruptcy in 2019. They open up about the risks they took, the sacrifices they made, and the lessons learned while fighting to keep advanced cancer care alive in Oklahoma City.
In this episode, grandparents Janet and Keith return to the Oklahoma Proton Center ten years after their grandson, Leo, was treated for pediatric cancer. They discuss the initial shock of the diagnosis and the emotional journey of supporting their family. The episode is a powerful testament to Leo's resilience and the enduring strength of family.
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