Beating Cancer Daily with Saranne Rothberg ~ Stage IV Cancer Survivor

In today's episode, Saranne shares her experience of incorporating cancer treatment into her busy schedule. She discusses the practice of micro-pausing between activities, which helped her stay present and manage the overwhelming thoughts about cancer. Saranne encourages listeners to try this technique and shares how it gave her incredible energy throughout the day. Join us as we explore the power of pausing and its impact on living our best days.

2025-2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025, 2026

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 156 countries across 7 continents

and features over 440+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

Today, Saranne welcomes back functional medicine expert Jacqui Bryan to examine the science behind immune system aging and the role of so-called "zombie" senescent cells. Saranne recounts her determination to rebuild her immune system after Stage IV cancer treatments while Jacqui provides clear explanations for why immune function declines with age and offers practical ways to strengthen defenses. Listeners learn how lifestyle choices like nutrition, movement, and stress management can profoundly impact immune health, especially for cancer survivors.

Jacqui Bryan is a whole health educator, certified nutrition specialist, registered nurse, and health coach with deep expertise in functional medicine. Drawing on her experience as both a clinician and long-time cancer survivor, she educates and motivates others to make simple but effective changes to improve immune health at every stage of life. Jacqui’s "food first" philosophy and real-world advice have made her a go-to resource in the cancer support community.

"We cannot prevent aging…but some of us may age a little bit more gracefully than others, and our immune systems might stay a little bit stronger." ~Jacqui Bryan

Today on Beating Cancer Daily:

·     Immunosenescence describes the gradual weakening and remodeling of the immune system as we age

·     Cancer survivors, especially after treatments like chemotherapy, may need to work even harder to keep their immune system resilient

·     The thymus gland produces naive T cells, but it shrinks with age, leading to fewer new immune defenders

·     Senescent "zombie" cells linger in the body, creating persistent low-level inflammation that increases disease risk

·     Regular movement, including brisk walking and strength exercises, has been shown to reduce markers of immune aging and improve function

·     Sleep is a crucial pillar for immune recovery and resilience, just as important as nutrition and exercise

·     Eating a Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, and healthy fats helps lower inflammation and support immune health

·     Vitamins C, D, E, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids are vital for maintaining immune strength throughout the aging process

Guest Contact:

Jacqui Bryan

2025-2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025, 2026

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 156 countries across 7 continents

and features over 440+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode, Saranne, the founder of the Comedy Cures Foundation, shares a unique coping strategy she developed during her battle with Stage IV cancer. Saranne discusses the awkward and sometimes painful comments people make when faced with cancer and how she found humor in these situations. She invites listeners to contribute their own experiences, with the possibility of creating a book to help others navigate these challenging moments. Join Saranne as she sheds light on the unintentional absurdity of these comments, offering a lighthearted perspective on a serious topic.

2025-2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025, 2026

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 156 countries across 7 continents

and features over 440+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode of Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne welcomes back comedian and cancer survivor Missy Hall for a lighthearted yet insightful conversation about her journey and the new memoir she's penning. Missy, who was diagnosed with cancer last year, has found a unique way to blend humor with her experience, proving that laughter can be a powerful tool in the healing process. Listen in as Saranne and Missy discuss the intricacies of writing through pain, the importance of leaving legacy pieces, and Missy's working title, "Laughing Through Cancer and Other Inconveniences." Get ready to feel inspired and amused by Missy's ability to find comedy in the most unexpected places as we continue this journey of beating cancer daily together.

2025-2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025, 2026

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 156 countries across 7 continents

and features over 440+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode, Saranne delves into the controversial topic of gratitude amidst the challenges of cancer. As a Stage IV survivor herself, Saranne acknowledges the difficulty in finding gratitude during such a trying time. She shares her journey and the miracles she has experienced but recognizes the emotions and frustrations that can arise when people expect gratitude to come effortlessly. Saranne explores a unique gratitude challenge that offers a thoughtful approach to cultivating gratitude and finding blessings despite intense struggles. Tune in as she shares insights and invites listeners to reflect on their own gratitude practices.

2025-2026 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024, 2025, 2026

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 156 countries across 7 continents

and features over 440+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode, Saranne, the founder of the Comedy Cures Foundation, shares a unique and lighthearted approach she takes before undergoing surgeries. With her surgical secret, Saranne asks everyone in the operating room to tell her a joke, creating a fun and playful atmosphere. Not only does this practice help alleviate stress for Saranne, but it also fosters a strong bond between her and the medical team. Tune in to discover how humor can transform even the most daunting situations, and learn about the Comedy Cures Free Laugh Line for a quick dose of laughter.

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 150 countries across 7 continents

and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode, Saranne, the founder of the Comedy Cures Foundation, shares a heartwarming story about a nurse who found a unique way to navigate her cancer treatment while continuing to work. Saranne also draws inspiration from Beyonce's alter ego, Sasha Fierce, and reflects on a personal encounter with the superstar. Join Saranne as she explores the power of adopting different personas and strategies to face the challenges of cancer.

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 150 countries across 7 continents

and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode, Saranne takes us on a refreshing journey into the world of walking. From the numerous health benefits to expert tips and personal anecdotes, she explores the simple yet powerful act of putting one foot in front of the other. Discover the surprising connections between walking and mental well-being, learn about innovative walking apps, and even indulge in lighthearted walking jokes. Lace up your shoes and join Saranne as she invites us to embrace the joy and therapeutic nature of walking.

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 150 countries across 7 continents

and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

As autumn and winter bring longer nights and colder days, Saranne welcomes functional medicine expert Jacqui Bryan to Beating Cancer Daily for an insightful look at how shifting seasons can affect mood, particularly for cancer patients and caregivers. The discussion highlights the differences between typical winter blues and the more intense Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), exploring how biological rhythms, lifestyle choices, and nutrition all play a part in emotional well-being during the darker months. Saranne and Jacqui offer practical strategies, from simple daily routines to laughter therapy and dietary adjustments, empowering listeners to take proactive steps for maintaining mental health, especially when facing cancer-related stresses.

Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, certified health coach, and registered nurse focused on functional medicine. She is known for her holistic approach, guiding individuals toward better health through nutrition, lifestyle coaching, and practical support for physical and emotional wellness.

"Self-care is not selfish. It's that old, you know, you're on the airplane and they say, put the oxygen mask on yourself first and then put it on your loved one next." ~Jacqui Bryan

Today on Beating Cancer Daily:

·     Shorter, darker days can trigger mood changes, with Seasonal Affective Disorder being more severe than general winter blues

·     SAD typically begins in late fall or winter and lasts several months, with symptoms including low mood, fatigue, cravings for carbohydrates, oversleeping, and withdrawal from social activities

·     Women, young adults, and people living farther from the equator are at greater risk for experiencing SAD

·     Tracking mood, energy, cravings, and sleep in a journal can help with early diagnosis and better conversations with providers

·     It is essential to distinguish between SAD and other conditions such as hypothyroidism, anemia, vitamin D deficiency, or medication effects

·     Common treatments include bright light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sometimes medication, though these must be carefully selected for those with cancer or bipolar diagnoses

·     Supportive nutrition includes probiotics, prebiotics, omega-3s, tryptophan-rich foods, and vitamin D, while processed foods and alcohol should be reduced to support stable mood

·     Cancer patients and caregivers face particular risks for SAD and should maintain open communication with oncology teams while pursuing social connection, laughter, and mindful self-care

Contact Jacqui:

Jacqui Bryan

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 150 countries across 7 continents

and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne

In today's episode, Saranne, the founder of the Comedy Cures Foundation, shares a powerful daily routine that she incorporates into her life. This routine involves a unique form of hand washing that she learned from a religious practice. Saranne explains how this practice helps her wash away negative emotions and physical discomfort, allowing her to start each day with a fresh mindset. Join us as Saranne guides us through this transformative ritual and encourages us to try it ourselves.

2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist

Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,

and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.

Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 150 countries across 7 continents

and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by

Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.

To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:

https://www.comedycures.org/

To write to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8

To record a message to Saranne or a guest:

https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions

To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:

https://www.comedycures.org/

Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:

http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate

THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.

Have a blessed day! Saranne